The following are earlier columns posted by Debbie on Ask Dede.
                                  Holiday Thoughts Dec 2002

As the year 2002 dwindles down to a precious few days and the sweet promise of
2003 has not been fulfilled, the indulgence of self-reflection is relevant.   Amid the
twinkling lights, the brightly wrapped packages, the screaming of the kids and
endless shopping and cooking that needs to be done, our thoughts of self are
quickly put on the back burner.  And yet our love of self, needs to be re-examined
especially at this time of year.

By not validating our essence of self or our feminine side, it is truly denying who
we are.  In recognizing our feminine side, we have already taken a giant step.  Our
outward self-expression is satisfying but not quite enough.  We need to gather
our strength and "step out of the box" that we, as well as family and friends, have
stuffed us into.  Lets clear the air, take a deep breath, be courageous and share
our feminity with a close friend or loved one.
                                        October / November 2002

Love is like a big pile of building blocks.  Its this special and private part of a T-Girl's
life. The "very" block she needs is
your acceptance.  Althought you may never quite
view (literally) your loved one the same, just realize the trust and love they have
risked for our
acceptance in a special part of their lives.

Rembember, beauty lies behing the make-up and below the crowning glory of their
wigs.  Relax, its our acceptance and approval they crave from us - as we do from
them when we gain an extra 10-15 lbs, burn an occassional dinner or can't balance
the checkbook.  Its knowing that no matter what the situation, they are loved.  Like
the child that needs to be reassured that we still love them no matter what letter
(A, B, C, D, F) is on the report card.

Open your minds and something different.  Take a chance on sharing this part of
his life.  The relief on his part will somersault into a shared love.
askdede@webtv.net
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