I'm A Grape!

Objects can mean different things to different people.  We project ourselves onto them and they reflect back who we are.

For most of you, female clothes are ordinary objects in your normal life.  They are items you've always worn.  You prefer some over others but, as a category, they probably have little meaning.

For me, it's different.  From my earliest memory, I craved female clothes; however, I was forbidden from wearing them.  I longed for female attire from afar.  In my mind, the objects acquired magical power.  They represented the life I wanted to lead -- but couldn't.  They symbolized the authentic life I ached for, but was barred from.

Please forgive this maudlin prelude but it's necessary to understand to grasp the significance of what I'm about to say.  One of my dearest friends, Ashley, just sent me some clothes.  Ashley lives in frigid Minnesota.  She was one of the first bloggers to befriend me.  She even posted a profile of me two years ago on her blog.

I received a package of clothes yesterday from Ashley.  Opening it, I came close to crying.  Her act touched me so deeply.  Not only are the clothes items I cherish but her gesture in offering them is a kindness I never expected to receive in life.  For longer than you guys have been alive, I wished for a girlfriend who'd accept me for who I am.  I never thought one would arrive.  I never expected to be seen, let alone understood.

So, you can look at the grape clothes below and see an outfit.  Or you can look at it and see a dream come true.

Thank you, Ashley.  And thank you, guys, for letting me share myself with you.