Mirror
Pride on the Page Day 3
Each of the mini-essays I’m publishing for the month of June are part of a creative challenge to share joy during Pride. You can find out more in the link below. You can even participate, if you’d like!
3. Mirror
Seeing my reflection for the first time after top surgery felt like looking at my dad. The difference was profound.
Seeing my reflection in the mirror of the men’s room felt like daring, like defying the odds, like that moment right before you get busted for misbehaving.
Seeing my reflection as I pass by windows isn’t disorienting anymore. I know who that guy is.
Seeing my face reflected back to me in pictures and videos with my family feels like coming home to myself after too many years wandering alone.
Seeing kindness reflected back to me from a world I never belonged to is still something I’m getting used to.
I’m not afraid of mirrors anymore. I don’t avoid them. I don’t hide when I see myself. I stare in wonder, I stare in awe, and the face staring back looks a little more like me every day.
Your trans friend,
Robin
This whole thing was gorgeous, but in particular I loved "Seeing my reflection as I pass by windows isn’t disorienting anymore. I know who that guy is."
My oldest child recently had top surgery. The difference it’s made to their mental health has been wonderful to see. Gender affirming care really is life saving.