Shy and kind closeted straight crossdresser. I started dressing very young (around 10), wearing my mother’s and sister’s things when I was alone. In my 20s I lived alone, and purchased several things of my own, including makeup. I worked for a gay man, and became a close friend of his, though I was and still am very straight. I went to several gay bars with him, and encountered many CDs, drag queens, and the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. But, I could never find the courage to come out to him as a CD. I’m married for over two decades now and have never revealed my secret to my wife. We have countless gay friends (male and female), but I’ve never revealed myself to any of them. It seems strange, and is one of my biggest regrets. I’ve lived so long with this secret that it feels like I’ve passed a point of no return. Perhaps one day I’ll find the courage. I’m grateful for all of the friends and discussions I’ve had with others like me here at CDH. It truly feels therapeutic, and I’ve grown to accept these desires that I have, and to realize there are so many like me in the world. That gives me great peace.