Coming Out As Trans

poto_heart has a great post about how/how not to react when a trans person comes out to you. I find the super-casual let's-get-past-it approach especially bothersome, as (1) it makes me suspect the person is grossed out or otherwise uncomfortable with me, and (2) it reminds me of those white folks who say "I don't see race!", conveniently ignoring the fact that most people of color don't have the option of "not seeing" race because they must deal with the world's reactions to it every day.

I think my favorite reaction so far was from a perfect stranger working at the Body Shop. She offered me a free sample of shaving lotion "for my husband or boyfriend," and without having planned to, I blurted out, "Actually, I've just started transitioning from female to male, so I'll use it myself." Her response, with a big smile: "That's wonderful! Congratulations!" I think I've told that story here before, but it bears repeating, as I can't think of any response I'd rather get.