If you were asked to guess what these two women were talking about during their coffee shop conversation, what would you say? Here are a few of mine: children, grandchildren, coupons, shopping, hair appointments. Stereotypical? Maybe.
I don’t actually know the topic of conversation at the time this photo was taken; however, I played this “guessing game” recently at a coffee shop, sitting near two women I’d guess were at least 70 years of age. My answer was the same: children, grandchildren, coupons, shopping, hair appointments. Boy, was I wrong!
The topic of conversation today? Transvestites. Yes, you read that right. The women were in a serious debate about the difference between a transvestite and a cross-dresser. When I got wind of this, I quickly lifted my coffee mug to shield my smile, as I held in a laugh. I listened closely, attempting to assess each argument as if my judgement would settle it.
I thought their debacle was a bit ridiculous until I realized I don’t know the difference, either (should I?). So, I did a little research to clear things up.
By definition (at least according to ehow.com):
Transvestite, also known as transgender, refers to “a state of being in which the apparent or biological gender (usually determined at birth) does not match the person’s subjective gender — that is, the gender the person identifies as”.
Cross-dressing is”the act of wearing clothing typically associated with the opposite sex. Cross-dressers are not necessarily transgender”.
And, in case you were curious, I also learned when speaking with transgender people, it is “best practice” to use pronouns that match the gender of their dress.
So, now you know.
JeriWB
Dec 02, 2011 @ 17:48:43
Just came across your blog today. You have a strong narrative voice and I will be back to read more! I love how you used this picture to inspire your post. I’ve taken a similar approach for creative writing exercises in the classes I’ve taught in the past. Also, love how you describe yourself as a social media nerd. I just started my new blog this November and am in the process of whipping it into shape. I too like to take a narrative approach, but many blogs seem to keep things pretty dry. Anyway, I’ll be back.
Alie
Dec 02, 2011 @ 18:07:23
Hey thanks for reading! I’m glad you’re enjoying my blog and the stories here. Please stop back by and best of luck with your blog! Ab