I know who I am.
I have zero doubt that I am who I am.
I am a woman, a trans woman.

It is the world outside of myself that is so challenging.

I should not be expected to dress a specific way,
Nor make certain gestures,
Or have the physical features each and everyone expects me to.

I do not answer to everyone,
nor any expectation of
presentation in any manner.
To anyone.

I am who I am
my value and
validity
are mine and mine alone!

The is NO external source that
has any authority over who I am, none and no one!

Yet I must weigh myself
against the backlash
that can bring upon me
a violence to a grave depth.

I must walk out my door
anticipating what others demand
to not draw faster
the full weight
of their judgement.

I am not confused.
I am me!
I am a woman, a trans woman.

Violence may drape
a disguise or
cloak me,
as I defend another day,
but I am.
I am a woman, a trans woman.