Oneness Ministry

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

Gender Surgery Other Options

by Sequoia Elisabeth

On the topic of surgery related to gender transition there are many options these days. Each person will have different desires and resources so this blog is very general. Be sure to discuss more specific concerns with your gender therapist or contact me. I am happy to answer questions.

Gender Dysphoria is the medical term assigned to transgender and transsexual individuals who are uncomfortable with their birth sex. The issue is the gender identity and the physical sex are non-congruent (do not match). Thus the new medical term of Gender Incongruency used now.

The treatment for this has evolved over the years and it has been found that while the genitalia are important other areas of the body are even more important in successful gender transition. The face and breasts are key attributes of being female or male! So it makes sense to alter these first and foremost to alleviate the dysphoria.

It is also important to remember the reason for any gender surgery is to alleviate the dysphoria and align the individual with their perceived gender identity. Everyone deserves to be comfortable in their own skin! Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) and Breast Augmentation Surgery are two methods of treating Gender Incongruency which may be more important than even the GRS, although some individuals have it all.

Some of the other more minor surgeries being done are trachea shave, liposuction, buttocks enhancement, rhinoplasty, hair implants, botox, and lip enhancement. The list is only limited by your imagination!

For the Female to Male transition breast reduction and hysterectomy are the important surgeries. FtoM transgender transition well with CHT and some only have the “top” surgery (breast reduction) depending on the level of dysphoria. Removing the ovaries is important to CHT making treatment more effective.

Another option of treatment for the MtoF is Orchiectomy. This is the surgical removal of the testis without any cosmetic changes. This procedure is inexpensive comparatively speaking at around $3,000-4,000 USD, it may be available for less depending on the surgeon and geographical location. The purpose of this surgery is to remove the production of testosterone and thus eliminate the need for anti-androgens in the transition thus avoiding the cost and side effects. Estrogen is still used in varying amounts depending on the timeline of transition. The first three years are critical for a successful transition, so it is vital to remain on estrogen continuously for that period. Those who are on and off CHT do not feminize well. They are left requiring surgery for all their feminizing. (The patient is taken off all CHT several weeks before surgery and then resume afterwards depending on doctors orders, this is unavoidable and has minimal long term effects, i.e. the benefits outweigh the costs/risks)

The CHT when used properly and as early as possible will preclude the need for FFS and Breast Augmentation in most cases. So these surgeries are mostly for individuals who transition later in life. Great care must be exercised in deciding the need for surgery! It is a trap that many are falling prey to now days with the explosion of cosmetic surgeries being done. The addictive qualities of almost instant gratification are not to be underestimated. Proceed with caution.

The transition journey is about learning to love yourself for who you are. Drastic surgeries are helpful in some cases; however it is easy to abuse technology! It is recommended that gender therapy be sought out first before any thoughts of surgery are seriously considered. Once you are sure surgery is right for you do the research to find a surgeon that can deliver the results you desire.

The number of qualified surgeons specializing in gender surgeries is growing all the time, so look locally and consider all your options. Just as in any surgery consider your motives, the consequences and the costs (not just money).

Imagine the results you desire and stay focused on this. You can also use your imagination to decide what exactly you desire, although actual experience has no substitute. If you feel like being with the same (birth) sex then do so and then decide if you desire GRS or other surgery. Be as clear as you can because there is no turning back! (Even though some have tried). When you are intimate with your partner how do you feel? Is this different than other times?

Blessings on your Journey of Love!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity Discover Sex and Sexuality click here

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Gender Surgery

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Continuing from the previous blog post, doing research concerning transition and Genital Reassignment Surgery (GRS) is very important. The older term SRS (Sexual Reassignment Surgery) is still used by some. Please review this page in the Gender Learning Center (Click here) for assistance in your research.

SRS/GRS is not as complicated as one would think. The procedure has been done now for over 50 years and lately the surgeons are getting very good at it. Some of the issues to be concerned with are logistics, cost and convenience. The skill of the surgeon is a very hot topic and while this is important, it is not as big an issue as it would seem. Depending on where the surgery is done, most countries have strict standards doctors must abide by, especially since surgery and medical care has become a commodity that brings in big money. Thailand and India are emerging as world leaders in this market so they definitely deserve a close look and your consideration when it comes to choosing your surgeon and location. The price you pay is many hours in a plane traveling across the world to save a few thousand dollars. When you can barely sit down, being in an airplane for 20+ hours is not appealing. Of course there are options to cope with this such as meds and cushions. From what I hear it is worth the trip.

The USA has several very good surgeons now doing SRS/GRS, so look closely at the local options. Most gender therapists will know who they are as do the gender support groups. I will not list them here because I would leave some out and that is not my purpose here. The informational sites I list on my website do include several surgeons, however I chose them on the basis of information provided, not on how good the surgeon is. If you have questions or need help finding someone close to you I am happy to assist. See the website Unity in Gender Diversity.

Logistics includes things like travel, housing, post care, assistance during recovery, preparations before surgery, documentation (passport, proper ID, surgery letters from your therapist), and medical records. Each surgeon will have requirements for you to meet, and they give ample advanced notice in most cases, however it is prudent to research this, so you are prepared. Call it peace of mind.

Cost is an issue that we all are acutely aware of. Many options exist however it is recommended that you get references from the surgeon you choose and make sure the location has the resources to provide safe and effect treatment in the event of an unexpected emergency. The costs include, travel, housing, food, surgeon fees, hospital fees, operating room fees, anesthesia fees, and medicines. Most surgeons have package deals so make sure exactly what you are getting and what will be extra. The recovery time is at least two weeks and many take as much as six weeks, so another cost is time off of work.

Convenience is the last but not least concern when choosing a surgeon and location. It is not to be under estimated. From the many post op transsexuals I have talked with, being able to travel a short distance to the surgery center and home again is a real plus. The horror stories of being on a plane for hours and hours is something to consider carefully. Take into consideration your age, possible side trips, who will be with you, and your travel experience. Those who are seasoned travelers will be more inclined to go far to save a little money. I also hear that sightseeing in places like Thailand can make it all worthwhile. Don’t rule out locations such as Europe, Mexico, Caribbean, India, or Canada. Check with your local Gender support group for those surgeons who are close to you and be sure to check credentials and review customer satisfaction of others who have experienced their services.

Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity Discover Sex and Sexuality click here

Trans-Gender Expectations

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The usual course of transition for a Male to Female (MtoF) Transgender is to first dress as a woman and to socialize with peers prior to taking the major step of CHT (Contra-Hormone Therapy). (HRT is hormone replacement therapy and since transition is about change and not replacement this term does not apply to the trans journey). Socializing as a woman is very different than as a man so getting used to that aspect is greatly beneficial in both determining if you desire to progress (going full time) and gaining the skills necessary to be successful. Many things will come naturally because they are innate such as mannerisms, emotional behavior including needs and desires, and mental processes. The learned traits may not be natural such as movement, social expectations and relationships. Gender transition is basically the process of breaking down learned “male” persona and allowing the natural female self to emerge. This will be easy for some; however, it is a big road block for most. Only 5% of those who attempt transition fully complete the journey from male to female; the larger percentage end up somewhere in between, which for many is perfectly acceptable and may in fact have been the goal all along.

It is important to be patient with the transition process and allow these things to occur naturally through counseling, feminine coaching, and voice therapy. A skilled gender therapist/counselor guides the path and provides a third person perspective to facilitate getting in touch with the authentic self. The feminine coach is valuable in helping to get in touch with feminine energy and develop its expression. I must say the first time I felt my feminine energy vs. my masculine energy it was a revelation! Being aware of the body’s energy and what it projects is very important. To truly express feminine energy do not project energy instead simply center in the divine feminine and this energy will attract others. I have posted a link on the transgender links page of Unity in Gender Diversity to The Yin Project. The feminine coaching here is highly recommended.

Voice therapy is vital to MtoF transition. Start this process as soon as possible, even before transitioning if you are planning that far ahead. I also recommend getting electrolysis started as soon as possible and depending on your age, I recommend doing laser first to clear the dark hairs and let the electrologist focus on the light hairs. It will take 6-10 laser treatments. Don’t let the electrologist tell you that laser is not permanent because I know that it is from experience. There is a page on this website that goes over the whole process of transition planning. Expect laser to work and with the proper hormone regimen the face is the only area that needs treatment unless you are unusually hairy and I know that some men are. Not to worry, this is a part of the journey, so plan for it.

The hormones do a remarkable job of reducing body hair and stopping male pattern hair loss. Find a doctor who specializes in CHT for transgender/transsexual persons, because doing this yourself or using a doctor with little or no experience is inviting failure. Getting periodic lab testing done to monitor liver function and other factors is vital to maintain a healthy transition. Plus working with a skilled professional assures the desired results. It can be done on your own, but that is contrary to what this whole journey is about in my opinion, which is to fully and completely experience the transition. This journey can be lethal so take it very seriously!

Many transgender/transsexual persons want to jump straight to the result and if that was meant to be then don’t you think you would have been female from birth? I can hear all the opinions flying as I write this which is great, remember this is from my experience and if you desire a different experience then make it so.

Surgery is a step that many desire and is the only known successful method of treating severe gender dysphoria. It is not for everyone though and will be addressed in the next blog. So stay tuned 😉

😉 Sequoia Elisabeth

Everyone You Meet Is Your Mirror

by Sequoia Elisabeth

What does your lifestyle say about you? Look around and see for yourself! Is your car cluttered with “stuff”? What about your desk, bedroom, living room, yard or closet? Is this stuff a sense of identity for you? It is for most people and I question this. Not if it is right or wrong, that is subjective, but what purpose does identifying with works of art or advanced technological devices serve for you?

Have you ever considered why you have to have the latest computer or that cute trinket from your vacation? Everything you do, say, or think defines you. Take a step back and see this. Who are you? Really?

Your environment also defines you and tells you much about the person you are. Is your life about clutter or order, dirty or clean, scarcity or abundance? The cluttered mind is reflected in a cluttered life, dirty thoughts are reflected in a dirty life, and abundant thoughts beget an abundant life. I hope you will take a minute to look at your life and start living with intention and purpose. Make a conscious choice to be one way or the other. Clean your house because that reflects the type of person you are, not because I or anyone else says you should.

Life is a reflection of your thoughts, words and actions. So if you wish to know yourself, just look at your friends, family, job, activities and living space. It can be a sobering event! And it can be inspiring too. Once you start living on purpose, the world becomes your oyster and you are the pearl.

Living Consciously means being aware of the details, appreciating them, but not obsessing on them. It is a fine line, but one that is very rewarding! What is important to you? What is of ultimate significance? What do you need to align with this and be an expression of this in the world? The mirror is your best friend as is pain, the bully across the street, and the accident you had last month.

“A loving person lives in a loving world. A hostile person lives in a hostile world. Everyone you meet is your mirror.” Ken Keyes

LOVE IT ALL!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Will You Or Not?

by Sequoia Elisabeth

I recently watched the movie “Green Lantern” and was intrigued by the notion that Will Power is the strongest force in the Universe. So I gave it some thought and consideration. This is what I came up with.

From my diverse readings one thing I have learned is that the Earth is a “free will” zone. Meaning that every person here has free will to make choices and do as they please. There are still those who would control you if you allowed them to and again this is free will! Being a free will zone it means others can harm you if you allow it and they choose to do so. There are realms where this is not possible where peace, harmony and positive energy is the only choice. The question arises then is this really what you want?

Obviously it is not, because you are here! That’s right in this 3rd Dimensional realm of free will and anything being possible trade off is simply the nature of life. When swimming you get wet. Now this seems obvious, however many think that they can live in a free will zone and somehow control others. If you are being controlled it is with your permission! Now this permission may not be conscious, but it has been made either by action or thought. “Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent” ~Eleanor Roosevelt.

This also pertains to Love, meaning no one can make another Love them. So how does one find Love? Simply by Loving – You get what you give. Thus through the free will to share your Love you find it! Once again this works in reverse too. If you harm another through your free will then you are harming yourself. This is not always apparent and often does not materialize for many years or even multiple lifetimes.

It behooves you then to be conscious of your choices and to take an active role in your destiny. The other consideration in free will is consequence. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. What you give you receive!

What exactly is Free Will? As I have written about in previous blogs, Will Power is a tool of the mind! It is for you to use in experiencing who you are and thus the world around you. The Green Lantern uses this tool quite well to create all sorts of protective and defensive weapons. Use yours wisely and for purposes that serve the Highest Good. Please note that the Green Lantern had to learn to use this tool and with practice it comes fairly quickly.

Explore the use of this tool you have been given and it will develop into a mighty vehicle of liberation both for yourself and others. Since you know that everyone has free will then it makes no sense to attempt to control anyone. Take personal responsibility for your life and use the tools of the mind to create a magnificent life! The simple act of doing so radiates this energy to all those you love.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

A Loving Universe

by Sequoia Elisabeth

As much as I would love to see the world shift unilaterally over to a Resource Based Economy it feels like the more probable outcome will be small pockets of change growing like an infection, spreading to areas of less resistance first and then to the mainstream once the bubble bursts.

I can see it happening now all over the globe! People are adopting sustainable living methods and lessening their dependence not only on oil but also on money. Remembering of course that both are simply tools which have been grossly misused. I for one am not ready to give up oil completely and we should not have to. It simply needs to be used in a responsible manner. Using it as a fuel needs to stop, we have other options now. Using it in manufacturing is one way it can contribute to our future, and even this will need to be modified to be sustainable. I must remind you that oil comes from Mother Earth and eventually it will return there. How we use it in the interim is up to us, the consequences will vary.

A few principles are all we need to proceed from here. One is “do onto others as you would have done onto you.” Imagine you own the land being mined, imagine you are an animal or tree growing on the land! What is best now? We are not alone here on Gaia and with respect and forethought we can all live in harmony! It is time we left our arrogance behind and lived a Loving Conscious Life.

Secondly “consider future generations of our ancestors who will be coming to take our place!” The Native Americans say to plan for seven generations. This is not so hard when you consider the connection we all have. These generations are our future selves! Just because life is eternal does not give humans the right to abuse it. The future does not have to include humans! We all know what happens to people who abuse the system, right?

Leaders like Gandhi, ML King, and St. Francis showed the way to live a humble life while at the same time standing up to authority. “Peace thru non-action is the way of our future.” Holding peaceful and loving thoughts no matter what you face takes courage and fortitude. Simply staying focused on your morals and principles is all it takes. This need not be difficult; the more people who do this the easier it gets, especially when we are all based in Love. The other details are just that, details. The core must be Love in both action and non-action. All of life must be considered in our actions and we must work together for the betterment of all! Lastly, “Interdependence of community is the way of the future!” We live in a Loving Universe, there is no other option.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Entertainment in a LBE

by Sequoia Elisabeth

en·ter·tain·ment

–noun

1. The act of entertaining; agreeable occupation for the mind; diversion; amusement

2. Something affording pleasure, diversion, or amusement.

3. Hospitable provision for the needs and wants of guests. (Dictionary.com)

In a Love Based Society entertainment is integral to daily life. Since all work is volunteer almost all tasks are engaged from Joy, Love and Sharing. Even if the task is dirty, difficult or tedious the person performing this task is enjoying themselves simply in the sharing of their talents.

Each person has many hours each day to enjoy the simple pleasures of life and so many activities are available to amuse! In fact it is the number one occupation since the basics of life are provided by machines and automation.

Movies are available in many forms, including 2D, 3D, and 4D. They are available at the theatre, dinner theatre, private showings, amusement parks, businesses, homes and on individual viewing devices. The power of this medium is fully understood now and all movies support the LBE. Nothing is produced which creates fear.

Most programming is educationally based in some way. The news informs about current events, show cases individuals from around the community and simply reports information in a neutral format. Movies are both entertaining and didactic. TV programming much like today covers all subjects, and is informative, educational and entertaining. Fear is no longer even an issue since all citizens are born into a Loving environment and raised on these principles. Love is our natural way, so it comes easily for each and every person!

Virtual reality is now common place so each person is able to enjoy an immersive environment that is only limited by a person’s imagination. Much like a holodeck made famous on Star Trek, the individual can enjoy many diverse experiences which are so thorough that even the person’s body is perceived as a certain role and in appropriate form, meaning that any body shape, form, gender, species, and/or color can be experienced. With machines providing all basic needs people are left to invent and develop the technology to amazing levels, the holodeck is the result of these efforts.

Also since resources are no longer wasted on war or conflict this leaves an abundance for entertainment. A LBE sees the larger picture that each person is merely a player, an actor if you will, so war is still recreated in the holodeck for educational purposes such as history, personal growth and mental therapy, but no one is harmed, and in fact it is used to heal past life wounds. Entertainment in a LBE encompasses all aspects of daily living making life both fun and beneficial for all. We are each guests in our own creation!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

All The World Is A Stage

by Sequoia Elisabeth

We have all heard the famous quote by William Shakespeare but have you really considered its meaning in your life? Please read on and I will share my insights.

Each person you meet is playing a role just as any actor would do on stage or on camera. This person brings personality to that role however it is still a role you as observer are creating. Your thoughts, feelings and actions are the fuel for this creation and there is a delayed effect so that what you thought yesterday or last week is creating today…this varies. With practice and intention you can reduce this time lag to seconds!

The time lag is for your own protection by the way. We wouldn’t want you to kill your boss or rape your sister. Not to stray too far here, I just need to point out that your thoughts are not yours! Until you claim them that is. You are sitting on the banks of a stream of consciousness and your fishing pole is extended. You are catching thoughts by the second and each one has to be evaluated and either kept or discarded! The mind is an incredible computer and crunches this data so fast you often do not even realize it is doing so. Your conscious will can be utilized here to keep the thoughts you like and discard those which are not an expression of who you are?

Returning to the actors or persons in your life… they may change either by death, geography, marriage, or other circumstance. Over the course of your life the individuals change, but the roles do not! For example your aunt that inspired you as a youth shows up in your adult life as a dear friend who inspires and comforts you just as she did. Or you find a father figure in a friend at work. Getting the picture?

Certain archetypes exist in our life from time to time, so look closely at the people in your life whom you have daily interaction with. Ask what role they play? Have they always played this role? Is someone else playing it now? How do you interact with them? For more on Archetypes please see this website.

Take the idea of archetypes to a broader level and see that your current life probably fits into a story line and when the entire span of your life is considered you may see a series of archetypal patterns emerge. This is your evolutionary journey or your life lessons.

What this understanding has done for me is to make living a purposeful life easier as well as making it easier to love any person I meet in the first moment of introduction. I immediately see that person as another member of the family and not only do I feel more comfortable but they do as well, because I am radiating Love!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Multi-Purpose Life

by Sequoia Elisabeth

What if you have thousands if not millions of purposes in life and not just one? New books on the purpose of life or finding your true purpose in life come out all the time. We all feel a need for life to have meaning! What if that meaning is in the mix and simply by breathing and engaging in this realm your purpose is served?

Think about this for a minute. It could be your purpose is to smile at that certain person at work at just the right time to give them hope when they are feeling down. Or take your granddaughter to the zoo and inspire her to be a zoologist or simply to love her. Your purpose could be simply to think positively and love each person you meet with an open heart and kind words.

Super Heroes are one of our favorite subjects for the movies, however we are each a super hero in ways that really matter to those we love and care about! The movies are just there to inspire and entertain you. We each have our gifts to offer the world and what I am offering here today is the realization that you cannot miss your purpose as long as you wake up in the morning and live your life. The details take care of themselves.

Humanity has a higher purpose also that each of us is here to share. Some people call them principles to live by, but I see them as Universal Purpose. The first one is to “Be Here Now”. This simply means to be awake and aware of as much as possible at all times. The easiest way to know you are aware is to feel your breath as it moves in and out of your body. This can be done as you go about your daily activities. Simply feel your body, every cell is alive, pulsating with energy and carrying you to your destination – Feel It!

The next Universal Purpose is to “Love Unconditionally”. I think this is self explanatory; however I will point out some key points here. Love has no limits, and it is your very essence. Love is who you are! When you are embracing this gift you serve your purpose. Love feels good always and all ways, so if you are feeling pain that is a sin or a sign you have missed the mark. Loving is actually the easiest path or the path of least resistance, so go with the flow and stop trying so hard. Remember Love is your nature, it is as easy as breathing and as close as your heart beat.

The third Universal Purpose is to “Tell the Truth – as you see it”. We each come from a place of our personal understanding and knowledge. It is important to always operate from this point of Truth. Lying is a deliberate avoidance or aversion from this place of Truth and it harms you every time you do it. A layer of separation or veil is created each time you lie and on the journey home you must clean through these layers to reach source. All humans have a certain number of layers; it is simply an occupational hazard of being human. We make mistakes, do not fret my child. Instead focus on the Truth and be honest with yourself and others always.

We each have personal purposes as well as the Universal and these are discovered by listening closely to your heart and being observant of life and that which inspires you. What brings you Joy? I am not talking about having fun; I am talking about a deep feeling of blissful satisfaction and serenity. The answer to every question is always right there and all you have to do is look, listen and feel.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

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The Gender Sexual Connection

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Sex: The physical sexual organs, what is between the legs. This can change due to sexual reassignment surgery; includes male, female and intersex.

Gender: Separate and different from an individual‘s physical sex or sexual orientation (hetero, homo, bi, or asexual), it is an individual‘s perception of the inner self as man, woman or some combination of both, transgender.

Operating from the above definitions we now know that gender and sex are very different and yet from experience we also know that they are intimately connected. How do we work out this connection? Is it meaningful?

Sexual Orientation is the trait we give the most attention because it involves others. Who are you attracted to? Why? Does gender really have anything to do with this attraction? How important is appearance? What about body parts? Some people are turned on by toes and if this is the case does it matter what is between their legs? What if ears are a turn on, the same question applies. You are probably saying that what it leads to is very important and this is where the genitalia come in. I agree completely.

In the transgender world we offer a contradiction to this process. Our parts do not match the majority of the human race. So do we have GRS to conform or is it more practical than that, simply to enjoy sex in a manner which supports our mental functions? Many transgender women have surgery just because they cannot bear having male genitalia. It is like having a large growth on your body which causes you distress. It could just as well be a tumorous growth! In this case having surgery is medically necessary, as much as any person with a tumorous growth. When the result is a happy well adjusted individual post op it is hard to argue against GRS/SRS.

“As an effective treatment for a specific mental disorder, sex reassignment surgery is as deserving of public funding as any other psychiatric treatment.” states Dr. Ray Blanchard, head of the Clinical Sexology Program at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. (Egale Canada ©2011)

“The reported 68%-86% overall success rates for sex reassignment surgery must be viewed cautiously; the lack of long-term follow-up studies makes these statistics misleading. There is evidence suggesting that some gender dysphoric patients benefit primarily from sex reassignment surgery. Most such patients, however, are secondary transsexuals who can benefit from various modes of psychotherapy. Sex reassignment surgery should only be considered as the last resort for a highly select group of diagnosed gender dysphoric patients. As physicians learn new ways to diagnose and treat transsexualism, either sex reassignment surgery will be abandoned as a routine treatment modality or new predictive variables for choosing suitable patients for sex reassignment surgery will be established.” (Lothstein, Am J Psychiatry 1982; 139:417-426) The above quote is a bit out dated now and this author finds it interesting that its prediction is far from correct. SRS has grown in popularity as surgical techniques have been perfected. It is now the best treatment known for severe gender dysphoria. The question remains, what if the dysphoria is mild? What constitutes mild? This is between the patient and their counselor or therapist.

The final point or question I wish to raise is, does sexual orientation figure into ones decision to have surgery or not? From the clinical perspective, the answer would be no. Dysphoria is separate from sexual behavior and needs to be treated regardless of sexual orientation. The practical side of the issue is a personal one. Transsexuals often start off in same sex relationships and to have surgery would destroy the identities associated with the relationship, so unless both individuals are flexible the relationship ends. This is even the case in heterosexual relationships since it would be homosexual after surgery. Those relationships that do survive often forgo sex altogether.

One of the most difficult aspects of the transgender journey is relationships and the changes they must go through along the way. The losses are often heart breaking, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. It can lead to more loving and authentic relationships! The road has many potholes, so it is best to proceed with caution.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

TransTerminology

To Be Or Not To Be

by Sequoia Elisabeth

To have GRS (Genital Reassignment Surgery) or not, is sort of like the question “to be or not to be”? It is a choice all gender variant individuals must answer. Of course we could get into the terminology game and define the different stages of the transition journey, but we will not. (Please see how I define terms here) Take me for example, (because I don’t like to speak for others) I have identified as no less than 7 gender identities including man, woman, androgynous, crossdresser, transvestite, transgender, and transsexual. I am not sure many others even exist, except for maybe queer or genderqueer and in my day that was a very undesirable label. I hated that label almost as much as being called Lurch. To say I have an identity crisis is an understatement; my life is an identity crisis! Or is it?

The reality is life is always growing, changing, and experimenting with various forms of existence and humans are no different. How many people do you know who are happy with only one outfit, one flavor of cake, one of anything in their lives? It sounds absurd to me to even think of living in the same house all your life, from birth to death. Many have done this and that is the beauty of nature. If it is possible then it has occurred at least once.

Variety is the spice of life! So how you identify is up to you and it does not have to be set in stone. Crossdressers identify as their birth sex, but like being the other from time to time, so they dress in the clothes of the opposite sex. To me this is not necessarily a gender identity issue. It certainly is not an illness or disorder. It could however be classified as a fetish. The point being here is these individuals have no desire to have GRS.

I like to think of gender as a rainbow or sliding scale. The scale runs from male to female and has many degrees in between. It looks like the graph to the right. The other factor which confuses things is a person can fluctuate on the scale from day to day and even moment to moment.

So how does one decide that GRS is right for them? This is the million dollar question! It is not a decision you can reverse. So taking it seriously is highly advised. Getting in tune with your inner feelings and experimenting with different lifestyles and roles is important in reaching this decision. How do you feel most comfortable? Are you sure? Is is always this way or does it fluctuate? If it fluctuates to any degree then maybe you should wait on GRS. I have seen several different statistics indicating that most GRS candidates are happy post op and the numbers of people feeling they had made a mistake are few in comparison. WPATH guidelines were design just for the purpose of assuring only true transsexuals or severe gender dysphoric individuals get the surgery.

So what do you do if you are in the middle somewhere? Gender Dysphoric but only mildly and able to live in the birth sexes gender role. This is a choice for the individual ultimately, but a professional specializing in gender issues should be consulted for at least 3 months and preferably for a year or more. From my experience it is often other issues that depress the individual making gender dysphoria a secondary condition. Again this is why it is so important to have professional help.

Next time we will discuss sexual orientation and its role in the GRS question if it has one which I feel it does. Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation are different, yet connected, like much of life!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Transgender Etiquette

Money in a LBE

by Sequoia Elisabeth

In a Love Based Economy/Society (LBE) standard of exchange no longer comes in the form of money. Trade still takes place but without money, however this is not the central foundation, nor is it barter. Instead things are based on gifting and resource allocation distributed equally. All peoples are given their basic needs equally and since Love is the basis of society, compassion including the care of others comes first. No one would take anything without considering the needs of others first. Things of value are exchanged as gifts, such as flowers, a bottle of wine, a meal, jewelry, art or just about anything depending on the giver and receiver.

Whatever is needed is available from a central repository which operates much like a library. If you need a tool or large item you simply walk in and borrow it for a certain amount of time, and when done you return it for someone else to use (it is the property of the people – not the state or government. Each person is taught from birth that all material possessions belong to Mother Earth and her gift to anyone and everyone who respects and honors the gift). Disposable items such as food or cleaning supplies are provided much as they are today, only there is no money involved. Nothing harmful to the environment is ever distributed.

Since all work is done on a volunteer basis from the Love within each person, money is not used. Resources belong to everyone and no one. No one hoards anything at any time because they understand the Universal principles which are taught from birth. Love, caring, compassion and the well being of all life is central to all teachings.

No one person or organization is “in control” although there is an organization responsible for basic functions such as maintenance of the technology and infrastructure. The Central Council of Elders oversees the computer which runs all functions on the entire planet. Every aspect of life is attended to, although it is done in a seamless fashion.

If you need a gift for a special occasion you go to the market area and simply pick something out or you make it yourself. It is an honor to have your creations appreciated. The principle of “what you give is received” is fully understood by all. Great care and effort is put into making great works of art and craft. Giving them is the reward.

The basic items are produced as needed and not made in advance as they are today. This saves resources and wastes nothing. No extra space is needed for storage or warehousing. Old items are recycled. Requests are sent to the distribution center where it is picked up by the person who ordered it. If you remember the store “Service Merchandise” the process works very similar to their concept, however a computer displays the item in 3D hologram and is not actually manufactured till requested.

The aspect of a LBE that makes it so desirable is a good standard of living for all citizens, no one is above another and no one is treated with privilege or disdain. Since all resources are carefully monitored and maintained by a neutral computer system, equality and efficiency are assured. Money is no longer a motivator in society!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Resources In A Material World

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Since technology is so critical to a Resource Based Economy, so is manufacturing. Products and supplies are still needed and this is the beauty of the new system. Manufacturing is all automated as is most all of the transport and distribution.

Raw products are mined by machines, processed and distributed by machines. People are not need or very few will be around to oversee operations and make sure repairs are being done and the product is getting where it needs to go. Eventually no one will be needed in this role. The transition period will take a few years and is already in motion.

Most manufacturing these days is automated, if not totally, then partially. This is mainly concerning mass production, because there will always be the individual shop owner that provides a personal touch to a service or product. Disposable products such as flowers, food, and drinks are a good example. Machines can pick flowers, but having a person give them to you adds that personal touch that we do not want to lose. People are the reason for the season so to speak. We all will have jobs that make us happy and fulfilled.

Construction and building maintenance is done by machines or volunteers. The idea of resource management without the profit motive makes implementation so much easier. People will work from a giving perspective and the rewards will be in the joy they bring to others. Quality will be higher as will be the energy of the building. We all know that the amount of love and care put into a building or anything really, is reaped by those who enjoy it daily. Visit a custom or home build building and see if it does not have a more “homey” feeling. The principle is “what you put into a job is what you get out” or what you give you receive.

Farming is automated as much as possible, but will still need a few people to oversee things and do the jobs a machine cannot. This is why in the outlying regions rural maintenance cities will be hubs for farming. Areas that are not suited to farming or mining are left as natural spaces, no hunting or fishing will be allowed. Only nature watching, scientific study or communing will be allowed in these areas. With the equal and efficient use of resources there is plenty of land left over for wild areas.

Farming will be warehoused to as large a degree as possible, with things like lettuce, tomatoes, berries, and other vegetables being grown in hydroponic warehouses that are lit with artificial light and clean filtered water systems which require no pesticides. This can be done underground or wherever it is needed, even on artic, ocean or off world locations. The possibilities are only as big as your imagination and desire.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Technological Age

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The key to a resource based economy is the use of technology wherever possible. This means it is used in almost every aspect of living. Every standard system and social service will be automated including, food production, energy supply, maintenance, waste removal, recycling, health care, education, communication, transportation, construction/housing, and entertainment (except live performances). Technology is woven into the very fabric of our existence and has become so natural it even enhances our bodies.

Humans are free now to pursue Spiritual, Artistic, Social, Interpersonal and Scientific interests. Since no one has to work any longer society as a whole has grown in many fantastic ways. Living is a joy now and happiness is at all time highs. This is not to say that no one works or ever gets sad. This is a part of life and now we are free to experience them on different terms, without fear.

Technology still needs minor maintenance and supervision, however even this will be automated. Those who work do so as volunteers. Most people work serving others in various capacities and do so from a deep desire to give. The feminine energies are strong in this new Age of Aquarius.

Every industry is now dominated by technology. Politics is gone, being replaced by a council of elders who earn their positions after many years of volunteer service. Decisions are made by the central computer system on the basis of equal resource allocation and runs the entire world. The council of elders oversees operations of the computer and governs the entire planet. No borders exist between counties and instead geography is identified by regions of vegetation and location, such as the tropical central Americas or the Plains of Russia. It is more earth based in natural systems.

Religion too has gone by the wayside as people awaken to the Spiritual force that resides in each of us. People realize they do not need another to tell them what to do or how to act. Guidance streams to them every second of every day from the one source. Oneness is embraced in its true form. Each person expresses this Spirituality differently and groups of like mind still gather, but not in the spirit of teacher/pupil, but of sharing and community.

There is no aspect of living that is not touched by technology; however each person has a choice to the degree of technology they enjoy. Most will have technology do all for them, but some will choose to do things manually, for fun and growth.

Technology in a LBE becomes the servant on the lowest levels and people are elevated to higher levels of existence. How they experience the world is still up to them and the major obstacles of money and lack have been removed. Resources are shared equally so everyone is comfortable and their physical needs are met leaving plenty of room to grow in mental and spiritual areas.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

For more on a LBE please see earlier blogs, right here in Transitions Blog.

For more on Technology of the Future, Today, click here.

Speak To Me

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The new earth (a Love based Economy/Society, LBE) is made up of core cities all over the world close to, but not exactly where cities are located today. Cities will come in four sizes, Metropolis (1 million or more population), Large city (100,000-999,999 population), small city (1,000 to 99,999) and rural maintenance city (under 1000 population). 97% of the population lives in a city. The wilderness is left for wild things.

Each city is connected to all others by an inter-world communications net built right into any and all infrastructure. Just as we have phone lines today each building has communication nodes installed which transmit signals wirelessly. Each community/city has its own grid of wireless networks so anyone can speak to anyone else anywhere in the world from wherever they are with a good quality signal even from buildings below ground or in remote rural maintenance cities. Like raindrop ripples on a smooth lake the calls go out to cover the world and beyond.

Communication in a LBE is conducted in diverse ways and as all else, it is totally free. Public Comm Centers equipped with all available communication modes are provided in commonly used areas such as transportation centers, shopping areas, educational sites, and entertainment centers as a convenience to those who have misplaced theirs or simply as backup to personal communication devices. All communicators automatically translate any known language, so talking to those in other countries is as simple as saying hello.

Traditional mail and email are still used on a limited basis for those who choose them, however most prefer telepathy or voice communication. Protocols or guidelines are in place for the use of telepathy (a form of telepathy exists today, so this is not far off). In a LBE each citizen respects the others right to privacy. It must be remembered that in a LBE all actions come from Love and are Loving. As the ability to communicate by telepathy grows, learning to keep thoughts private is learned rather quickly. (In a LBE privacy is not an issue because we all realize Oneness, meaning the one mind knows all there is to know and we access it on a need to know basis.)

The new earth is characterized by a Universal understanding of Oneness and its ramifications. Each thought, word and action is carefully processed by our increased mental capacity which has been growing over many years of evolution. (The future is now, consider how much more intelligent the average person is today compared to just 300 yrs ago).

A LBE exists today in a sparse peppered pattern all over the earth and it is growing daily. The time has come and the masses are realizing they control their destiny, not some Government Official or Religious Leader. Spirit works through each of us and as we awaken to the possibilities life will quickly follow suit.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Transition of Ages

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Pisces is the last of the astronomical ages and the end of an era. Aquarius is the dawn of the new earth! The changes occurring now are profound. We have all seen a glimpse of what is to come, with the drastic natural events such as tsunami’s, earthquakes, floods, tornados and severe weather, however what I speak of is even more profound. Here is a primer.

War has been a way of life for the past 2000 yrs or more and it is time to hammer our swords into ploughshares. Peace is the way of Aquarius. An age of perfect harmony is upon us and all we have to do is embrace it. It stands before us like an old friend. Let’s welcome her in with open arms!

Pisces is the old ways of manual labor, chaste systems, fossil fuels, power based monetary systems and dominate masculine energy. This is giving way to the precise opposite – automated labor, equalitarian systems, renewable energy, Love Based Society, Resource Based Economy, and passive feminine energy.

The beautiful part of all this is we each chose to be here now to take advantage of this shift in energy (takes years to complete). It is a great opportunity to shift your own energies to a higher vibratory level. It is time to shift your consciousness to the next level! This is a choice not a requirement, so those who prefer to remain in the old Pisces ways are free to do so. This article identifies the Aquarian age as beginning in 2060, but also says it take 200 years to make the transition. Meaning we are shifting now (1960-2160).

The Aquarian age is also showing in our gender and sexual preferences, “Iconclasm such as this is characteristic of Aquarians who are frequently noticed to have “unusual” sex lives, such as androgynous and bisexual. Mind you, by Aquarian standards, nothing is that unusual. That is what it means to be an Aquarian, an individual.” (Fenn N. R., 2007)

Think deeply about what your heart desires. Better yet learn to listen to the heart and not your head. This is another of the shifts. We are moving into thinking and intellectual Aquarian age so Heart based guidance will be needed. The brain connects you to the mind which we have learned is a wonderful tool, but it is not who you are – this is connected through the Heart.

The Heart is what connects to the soul. You may know this as intuition which is similar. The soul guides you by communicating with “gut feelings”. Have you ever chosen a path and then felt sick in your stomach? Those who are familiar with the chakras know the soul chakra is in the solar plexus or approximately in the stomach region. The Heart chakra connects directly to your Higher Self or Oversoul (heart chakra is literally over the soul chakra). Working with this energy and opening this doorway is key for everyone who chooses to move on to the Age of Aquarius! See the meditation at bottom of page.

In conclusion, I ask you to look closely at your life and see the change that is taking place and know that it is bigger than you! Like an organism in a caterpillar we are all changing…

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Contracts

by Sequoia Elisabeth

I used to believe in fate because no matter what I did certain things happened anyway. My awaking has been quickening over the past 20 years and I would like to share what I have learned about being the Master of your own Fate.

First and most important is the law of attraction, what you focus on grows! The second is the mind is a tool, not who you are. Your thoughts are not always yours, unless you claim them (An idle mind is the devils workshop). Please see my eBook Livin’ Large for more on this. I talk about the senses of the mind in my blogs of September 2010.

What I have not discussed before is why we are alive, living here on earth, and in this current situation. This has taken me many years to figure out, as soon as I think I have it, something else presents itself and my understanding is deepened. So I am sure this will happen this time around too. Be aware – gifts are all around you! Those who need this info will find it!

Your life is finite, material, and limited in appearance only. In fact you are a multi-dimensional being whom has incarnated here on earth at this time to experience the lessons available in the exact situation and circumstances you chose before you were born.

You have made contracts with others in your soul group or perhaps neighboring soul groups to experience different things at different times for the soul’s purpose or the sole purpose of expanding your soul (Spirit, or God Connection).

These contracts take many different forms and can be as simple as a onetime encounter or as complex as a lifelong association. They can be as powerful as agreeing to murder someone or as benign as bumping into someone on the subway so they look in the direction they need to or maybe you introduce them to an important person in their life. My grandmother’s best friend introduced my father to my mother, so this is a perfect example of a soul contract.

The complexity of the whole process can get to be mind boggling so do not fret about it too much. The Spirit communicates with us on a need to know basis. If it could hinder your progress you will not know about it. Nothing harmful can truly take place in this world! Think about this… Everything that happens is for the highest good and if not then life shifts to make it so. The very worst thing that ever happened to you was probably a soul contract with a hidden or not so hidden gift within. Even death is a learning gift for you or someone else. (ACIM calls them forgiveness lessons – why are most murders or rapes often from someone you know? Yes – it is a soul contract and our family and friends are often in our soul group)

The main reason I share this now is so that you will be aware of the gifts in your life and look for the good in all that you experience. I can remember my great aunt saying she never took pain killers because pain holds a gift. It is supposed to hurt! You are also supposed to find the gift and then release the pain. Holding on to the pain is suffering and this is never necessary! Suffering is never necessary, but it is an option.

It has taken me a lifetime or two to learn this lesson about pain and I still get insights all the time. Sometimes it takes help to release the pain and this is most likely because you needed to meet someone or experience a process like love, forgiveness, or empathy.
Of course, it could be any number of things. Look deeply and you will see.

When you understand that all things happen in the highest and best good it is so much easier to get out and live your life fearlessly. This is a Loving and Supportive Universe – Make It So!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Living Without Money

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Living without money is the answer to the current economic crisis. The current money system has been failing repeatedly since its inception. This is a good thing because it is the way we evolve. All systems on earth grow till they are no longer efficient and serving the needs and then they fail. Adaptations are made and a new modified system takes over and it seems little has changed. (This includes all living systems; the earth, plants, animals, and humans)

The roaring twenties are a good example where the economy grew very quickly, there were plenty of jobs and everyone (the middle and upper class) prospered. By the thirties though the system had been stretched as far as it would go and it failed. The great depression set in. A new system was put into place and off the economy went fueled by war in the forties.

After the war, the system worked well till the seventies when we experienced our first energy crisis and it was declared that we needed to escape our dependence on foreign oil. Things were propped up and life went on. This is the cycle which continues today. The government steps in and artificially props things up, mostly for corporations which run this country and everyone is lulled into a false sense of security.

The system is failing again and this time could be for good. We have a wonderful opportunity to replace the old failing economic system with one that is vibrant and promises hundreds of years of prosperity for all. This new Love Based Economy/Society (LBE) truly is an equalitarian society where everyone prospers to their own desire.

The documentary movie “Living Without Money” show cases one way in which we can make the shift from money to none. They call it a gifting economy, and others call it modified barter, the important thing is that it works. The system is still based on Love! This is the critical part. Without Love no system will work and at this point with the world teetering on destruction we need drastic changes.

I highly recommend seeing this movie so you can get an idea of how a gifting economy can get the world headed in the right direction. You too can live a very comfortable life without money! I am sure the system will look slightly different depending on the continent that you live on. For instance, in the USA with corporations running everything, bartering with the supermarket may be difficult, so people will be going to farmer markets and creating co-ops. Supermarkets will eventually fail or be replaced by a resource allocation system that is not based on money.

This is not about going back to the old barter system and living in the dark ages. It is about moving forward into the new age of giving, sharing and interdependence. It is about the world coming together as ONE, because we are One and the Earth is our sustenance! We are biting the hand that feeds us and this must stop – NOW.

I believe the gifting system proposed by the movie “Living Without Money” is a bridge to the more sustainable and prosperous system of resource allocation. I know that you realize a change is needed, so please do not think that propping the failing monetary system back up once again is an answer, it is only delaying the inevitable. By consciously choosing a LBE the future will flow right into our laps.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

For more on a LBE please see earlier blogs, right here in Transitions Blog.

I Thought So

by Sequoia Elisabeth

All change begins with a thought which is evaluated with the six tools of the mind and then either implemented or discarded. Often times the idea is “run through the mill” hundreds or even thousands of times before it is tweaked enough to become reality.

The thought I am presenting today and for the past several months is a Love Based Economy/Society (LBE). If you have not read the previous blogs I hope you will take some time to look over them. The idea is not new or even unique and has been around all your life. John Lennon wrote and sung about it as have countless others over the centuries. The wonderful fact is the time has come to embrace this thought with all your heart, because you are not alone.

The Universe is in alignment for the transformation of this world into a LBE. I write now about this because I have seen it manifesting all around me and I am excited for the future of mankind. We have made it past the hardest of the changes and as more individuals embrace the new earth the faster and smoother the transformation will go.

The way to embrace the future is to wake up and take action in living a sustainable life. Live your life on purpose! Consider others in all your decisions and not just family. Think about the animals and plants that are affected by your choices. Consider the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil we grow our food in. Be compassionate!

The world I see is much like the Venus Project and I suggest you go to their site and explore some. The videos they offer are very informative and present some great ideas for creating the world of our dreams. The process is easy, take one step at a time and do not be in a hurry.

The Venus Project is already on phase three of its development and has been in motion since the 70’s. This next phase is a big leap into the future of mankind. It involves building a city to the specifications of this new ideal. Much of the technology needed already exists today (Please see the videos).

For more in depth information on how the Venus Project is being implemented please read the FAQ here. One of the key factors in this process is the world coming together and this is happening as you read this! It is possible and in fact a requirement for the future of mankind to have a world without borders, nationalism, or religion. We can no longer afford to fight over imaginary lines and ego claimed resources. The fact is plain, the earth is one and we are a part of earth not the other way around! Can you imagine your brain cells claiming ownership over your body? Charging the blood cells for entering its space? How about your skin charging the other organs for protection? Can you see the absurdity of our present world economic system? Consider the words of this song.

The world is one big organism called Gaia. You can hold on to the old ways and perish with them (flushed off like a dead skin cell) or you can open your heart and take a step back to see the bigger picture (embrace your role in this process). All is well. Everything that happens is meant to in the Divine Schema. The actions you take today add to the greater good! Please do not ever think you are not important! Your part is key to the final outcome. Only you know what that part is, listen carefully – Spirit speaks.

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth