Ara In Position To Transition

Summary

In this insightful interview, Aura, a trans woman, shares her journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Identifying as trans at 15 and coming out at 17, she discusses her experiences with gender dysphoria and the significance of her chosen name, 'Ara.' Aura candidly talks about her family's reaction to her identity, her decision to medically transition, and the importance of individual pacing in the trans experience. She emphasizes the diversity within the trans community, highlighting that each person's journey is unique and personal.

Takeaways

• 🌈 Aura identifies as a trans woman, realizing her identity at 15 and coming out at 17.
• 🏳️‍🌈 She felt she was 'born in the wrong body' and sought validation through online videos about trans experiences.
• 👦🏻 Growing up, Aura was seen as the 'feminine boy', caught between societal expectations for boys and girls.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Raised in a household of women, Aura's early environment was filled with traditionally feminine activities.
• 👨‍👦‍👦 Aura's father was less accepting of her femininity, which contributed to her internal struggle with her identity.
• 💃 The name 'Ara' emerged from her stage name 'Arabesque', reflecting her background as a dancer.
• 👪 Aura's sisters were immediately supportive upon her coming out, while her mother needed time to understand and accept.
• 🏥 Aura plans to start medical transition involving hormone therapy and surgeries to align her physical appearance with her gender identity.
• 🤔 Aura experiences body dysmorphia, feeling discomfort with her body's appearance and is looking forward to changes from her transition.
• 🏳️‍⚧️ Despite being attracted to men, Aura identifies as a heterosexual woman, emphasizing her gender identity over her sexual orientation.
• 🌟 Aura's chosen family and community provide a strong support system, crucial for her journey and self-affirmation.

Q & A

How does Aura identify herself?

Aura identifies as a trans woman.

At what age did Aura realize she was trans?

Aura knew she was trans when she was about 15 years old.

What was Aura's experience growing up with her family dynamics?

Aura grew up with her mom and two sisters, and her father was not very open to her feminine traits. She felt more comfortable in a household of women.

How did Aura's realization of being trans come about?

Aura's realization came about after watching videos online explaining what it means to be trans, which resonated with her feelings of being in the wrong body.

What was Aura's experience with her dead name?

Aura felt that her dead name, given at birth, was extremely masculine and awkward to answer to, leading her to go by a nickname that felt more representative of her identity.

How did Aura's family react when she came out as trans?

Aura's sisters were immediately accepting, while her mother initially had reservations but was more concerned about how society would treat Aura than questioning her identity.

What is the significance of the name 'Ara' for Aura?

The name 'Ara' came from Aura's stage name 'Arabesque' as a performer, which she felt was beautiful, unique, and fitting for her identity.

What are Aura's plans for her medical transition?

Aura plans to start taking testosterone blockers and estrogen hormones this summer, and she will also undergo surgeries to align her physical appearance with her gender identity.

How does Aura define her sexual orientation?

Aura sees herself as a heterosexual woman because she is a woman attracted to men.

What is Aura's approach to dating and relationships?

Aura is upfront about her trans identity early in conversations and relationships, ensuring that potential partners are aware and accepting of her status.

What kind of support system does Aura have?

Aura has a chosen family within the community, which consists of supportive individuals who are not related by blood but are there for her every step of the way.

What advice does Aura have for others regarding the trans experience?

Aura advises that every trans person's experience is unique and that it's important to love and support individuals at whatever stage they are at in their journey, without rushing them.