Heather Ashman, I wish a million people could read your story. I wish people could really put themselves in your son’s shoes for a moment and FEEL how it is to be afraid that people will treat you badly unless you keep basic parts of yourself hidden from them.

It’s so sad that both you and your son have to guard your tongues and strategize about how to communicate with neighbors about simple life events. That’s the reality of homo/transphobia in much of the United States, regardless of how much better things are for some people.

My hat’s off, though, for all the positivity you display. All my best to you both!

Jim