Talking With My Parents About Being Transgender

[@TheAlexanderOscar]

Hey Forrest, thank-you for your amazing video's. Your mum is so cool. I could relate to what you went through, and your family too. It's really reassuring for me to know that I'm not alone in my experiences

[@ArWx]

wow that was so moving -woof! so much emotions! your parents are so articulate & they sound pretty relaxed. i totally agree that it's super hard to break the ice and start talking, then continuing talking w/our parents/caregivers, to go over that fear of meeting rejection/misunderstandment. it takes time on both sides to process stuff & i realize w/my parents now that they feel fragile & scared to talk too, need some demonstration of love. It's great u filmed this & shared this with us, thanku!

[@FreshSoul59]

Some christians may not think this, but I really see faith and some sort of like higher power in this video. Thank you for being so inspirational to everyone.

[@crayonangels]

Amazing, heartwarming, honest and thoughtful video. I'm so happy for you that you have these wonderful parents in your life. Also, now I understand why you're so awesome. Love your interviews, keep them coming! (is that a German accent?)

[@ImStillStandingFTM]

What incredible parents you have!! No wonder when I was watching your videos today I see you as well grounded. This was refreshing!!

[@tobyr3]

Wonderful interview Forest. It's amazing what gifts have come to you as a result of your efforts to learn more about yourself and educate others. Their viewpoints open doors for you and eliminated another issue that had concerned you. Brovo!

[@reneerobinson3559]

I love how most of the comments ask if you're German! People are more fascinated with your heritage than gender. It's a good thing.

[@ClosetTransgender]

Nicole Robinson I hear ya!

[@PsyphaX09]

"Your tomboy time lasted forever"...that really cracked me up. You have an amazing parents, definitely something others would envy.

[@alexhaney100]

Wow Forest your parents are awesome!!! Thanks for sharing. Love these interviews!!

[@Zedie36]

oma? german roots, eh? my wife is 1st generation american on her moms side. her mom was born in the former yugoslavia after WWII & then her entire nuclear family (german) came to america. this vid made me sooo happy for you & quite sad for me. today & latter days have been tough, though. MOST parents love us & want us to be happy; MANY do so unconditionally; SOME do so conditionally from birth until death - that's the case w/ me. i appreciate you showing your vulnerability to us yet again...

[@ClosetTransgender]

@ukeANDkeys Let the positive voices fill your mind. You will be accepted, supported and loved. Heck, I support you!!! Even though my parents sound like saints, I think it took us some time to get to this level. So when life is tough, just give it time.

[@alexcollins71090]

Awww, Forrest!! I've been watching your videos for about a year now and this one was the one that made me want to comment. You are so sweet and your parents are lovely and I wanted to sincerely thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us!

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thank you Alexandra from Texas. I am so honored you are watching, your kindness helps me be brave and share more, because if no one shared these things, we would all know less about what goes on out there in the world! Anyway, it really means a lot to hear such kindness and support.

[@heyyyyythere12345]

what a lovely and accepting family you've got! It's so nice to see that they are supporting you :)

[@yourpalwes]

you're the BEST! i can't even handle it. way to go being so brave with your parents. your mom is a doll.

[@BreakerInc]

It's fantastic that your parents are that supportive of you, AND willing to go on video and talk about it.. So many of us (I'm FtM) get rejected, sometimes violently, by friends and family, so it's wonderful to see something like this. I also got lucky in that I was always a "tom boy". My Mother has been extremely accepting, even though she's 71 now. (I'm 32). She does slip up and call me she, or by my birth name sometimes, but we live 1500 miles apart, so they're understandable slip ups. :)

[@lsgshelton]

Forest, what an excellent answer! (not entirely dismissive & just enough explanation to find out if they're being flippant or seriously curious.) I tripped over a few of your videos a few months ago & now I'm watching more. You were brave to make this video. The honesty & openness of your parents & your raw emotions are priceless. Your parents are amazing, you too. You were even able to break new ground in this exchange (pronouns, hormones). Acceptance & respect. What a blessing!

[@pearlipop]

Forest, your parents are amazing. Having your family's support is one of the best things that you could have when continuing this journey of getting to who you're supposed to be, or in any other matters, for that matter. You're a lucky man.

[@robotgirlandghostify]

Awww, you have the sweetest parents. I'm so glad you have a loving family. That's really beautiful to see. :)

[@SHeroK2]

Hello Forrest (sorry, I never know if one or two "r")! Firstly: great parents! And secondly: Yay, your mom is German *g*. I heard it the first seconds she spoke - cause I'm from Germany too. Do you speak some German? And also, I always love your authenticity/honesty.

[@jamesmurrell]

I've just started watching your videos and going through them. Just love them, you're a natural at doc style videos :-) I am learning so much from them, and much more interesting to watch than the usual KZbin talking to camera style. Your parents are truly wonderful, this interview is an absolute treasure, thank you sharing this deeply personal stuff with the world. Inspiring how hard you and other FTM guys have to work at the basics in life that others like me take for granted, and to see how well you do it and the happiness you achieve. All humans can learn from that. And I've surprised myself at how hot I find some FTM guys, it has opened my mind!

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thanks a lot! There are some treasures in these videos, I love when people check out my older stuff too, this is one of my favorite videos of all times. I'm so thankful you took the time to write such a sweet comment, the transgender identity is something that needs to be understood better-- there is so much diversity as well as commonalities. I am learning more every day myself!

[@superotter77]

awww@the love, what a sweet video, so glad you have such a loving supportive family! interesting @ your parents' surprise @ your bio sex when you were born

[@ClosetTransgender]

I am so glad you added this comment to the conversation, it is nothing less than beautiful. I honor your heart.

[@Auswurkung]

Wow, I love how accepting your parents are. So amazing. It's beautiful.

[@WhileAKyle85]

My lord... I first watched this video three years ago... my the moment the lightbulb went off for me. Thanks for documenting your experience. It helped me so much to discover myself.

[@ClosetTransgender]

This is HANDS DOWN the most important video I have ever made, and it is a personal favorite. And you my friend have very good attention to detail!

[@GypsySupernova]

Aww your parents seem so great, Forest. They seem to have such a grasp on things despite you never really talking to them about being trans before. At points you look like you're getting a choked up. That's so sweet. :3

[@katnoj1]

I am pretty close to tears after watching this...Thank you for making it

[@crayonangels]

@CHRISTIANNWO Actually no, the definition of gay is not to be born in the wrong body. Being gay means you are sexually and emotionally attracted to the same gender as yourself. The only reason for a gay person to want to be born in an opposite gender would be to make living your life easier (since it's more socially accepted to be straight). Transgendered people however, can be both gay and straight. Gender and sexuality are two different things.

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thanks so much NP, I am very thankful. Been in sort of a video making lull lately- but this was an epic moment that I am happy to have gotten on video!

[@windwhisprz]

Your mom sounds like a lovely person and a great mom to have she seems super accepting and supportive and loving and cherishes you dearly.

[@niccikaufman6298]

FOREST! We worked together at a certain outdoor store, down in a southern part of a certain state.... You worked in clothes and shoes and I had no idea what I was doing in the bike shop. I went by Nicci then, but I'm just Nic now. I start HRT in about a month and it blew my mind to find you making videos on the yt. I hope you're doing well. Your videos have helped me a lot and I'm really glad to have crossed paths with you again, if only on the internet. Lots of love, Nic

[@restlessbones]

Oh I remember you, crystal clear! We met during some awkward puberty times of mine. Lol! I live pretty stealthy, and would love to cross paths again, it's a small world, so chances are high. I'm really glad you found the videos, I want them to keep helping and doing their work in the world. It's an honor to know you! I'm really thankful you reached out. Made my day for sure!

[@XYinside]

You have the sweetest more accepting parents. I wish my could see things that way.

[@hcimmt]

Great video, brave and true. So glad you had this conversation. xo

[@Zedie36]

my birth mother thought i was male too & both my birth parents were surprised when i turned out female. my birth mother cross stitched in yellow a little boy & a separate little girl in yellow. oddly enough, and no one knows why, the little boy is the one with my year of birth cross stitched on it. the little girl is blank. weird. i'm not adopted, by the way, i'm just in a place of letting go of what i never had where i'm saying birth mother and birth father instead of mom and dad.

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful comment. This is still my favorite of all the videos I made. I hope it heals and helps other people. I remember how nervous I was when I asked my parents if I could talk to them about this-- and to my surprise they were amazing! I think there is hope.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@disqon It takes courage everytime you tell someone. I am surprised how often people responded with more love and acceptance than I expected. But when it doesn't go smooth, it's just a matter of the other people processing. Just remember, you know who you are, you are not alone, and you deserve love and kindness, just as everyone else does! I support you!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@MadameSheep It's sad to know that parents can have such harsh reactions. I guess mine represent a possibility, and maybe even could inspire some parents? I don't know, but I sure realize how lucky I am. I think it took us both time to get to this point, but I really had no idea how... compassionate they were until I sat down for this conversation.

[@ClosetTransgender]

That touches my heart. I hope it brings more empathy and understanding to your situation. Be who you are!

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thanks so much for checking out my videos, it's been an amazing journey. Your comment is beautiful!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@PrinceMuffin It took me a little time to get to this level also with my parents. I think initially they weren't quite as smooth about little things, like name changes etc--- but with time they got to this level that they reveal in this video. I was so pleasantly surprised! Parents need to take their time, just like you say: to warm up to it!

[@ClosetTransgender]

It touches my heart, knowing that people are watching this and benefitting from it. It is still one of my favorite videos that I've made, I am so proud of my parents in this video. I had no idea that they felt like this, because up until making this video, it was a very awkward topic and we were all indirect and trying to understand, but sometimes you need to open the door, and other times you need to be patient. I love that you shared your words here. Thank you.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@Hearten7 You've been really helpful in this. You could tell I was getting a little choked up? Man, it's hard not to cry when you have all this estrogen in your body and you are trying to say something so close to your heart. But yes, all those things needed to be said, and thanks so much for your comment.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@markreilly52 There is a truth there. It does take time for the child to see the love and support that was always there. And I find that parents also keep growing with the help of the children, it's a beautiful exchange really, especially when we are open to it.

[@maxsmith7901]

You have such, awesome supportive parents, Forest. This video was amazing. My own parents rejected me when I came out to them and refused to support me or acknowledge my true gender in anyway. My dad even said something about my new name being conjured from hell....whatever. We no longer have a relationship. They and my brother turned their backs on me. I do however have a supportive husband and aunts, uncles and cousins that I can turn to.

[@ClosetTransgender]

It's sad to think of how common your experience is, but good for you that you are claiming independence for the negative energy that serves no good. And plus you are surrounding yourself with the good stuff! What a beautiful family you have!

[@TheMamadeira]

Omg your parents are wonderful just like you! :)

[@ClosetTransgender]

@yourpalwes I showed my mom the positive comments and she was very touched (and surprised!). Thanks for all your support, and dang, I really didn't expect that my parents would be so cool to interview. My dad saying, "The moment you were born I thought you were supposed to be a boy." Wow, I had no idea. He was so right on. So magical. Geez.

[@pelenta.forrest6127]

You are very brave and handsome!! Congradulations for standing up for yourself.I truly admire that :) :):) and I love the accent

[@ClosetTransgender]

Pelenta R. Forrest Thank you so much Pelenta!!!!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@danahighfill Thank you for helping me. It has taken me time to get to this level, and talking to my parents was like the ultimate hot seat. I was sweating, heart pounding, but I knew something good would come out of it, and I was surprised beyond expectation.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@bornagainmutant Thank you for supporting me also, through amazing comments like this. I also tear up whenever I hear radio programs or something where parents care and support their kids-- no matter what about! Parents forget sometimes what a huge affect they have on their children, and vice versa. The things that came out in this video--some of them were news to me! I just had to hold it together, and now if I ever feel down I can watch it. But the words said in the vid--they were for you too.

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thanks for watching, I'm glad you are checking out some of my older favorite videos!

[@chanapanya]

really fantastic video! What lovely, honest parents!!! Thanks for the comments on my channel about a month ago I only just saw them. All the best, Luca

[@JustMxAsh]

I wish i could live in your area (not in a creepy kinda way lol), your such a great guy and everyone seems so openminded even if they dont understand what it's like to be trans. You truely have some great parents Forest, im really happy for you :) This was a real beautiful video.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@alexhaney100 I appreciate your comments, and whoa did that conversation blow my mind. I was scared going in, but then my parents surprise me with intense compassion and articulate thoughts... I am really thankful.

[@Graziella2006]

This is Very cool : ) Your MOM has a very great memory of things and very good memory of watching you : ) BTW your MOM has a German accent HEHE sounds sweet (I m German, my MOM is American )Thanks Forrest for this vid : )

[@ClosetTransgender]

@SalviaSeatBelt Thank you so much, every positive comment means so much to me, as it is probably the most vulnerable act I could think of that I've done. It really helped me to have this conversation and I hope it can give others courage, strength and hope.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@Dylansayshello I had no idea just how accepting and supportive my parents were. Life is filled with surprises and I thank you for your wonderful comment.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@Chris2Jonathan Yeah, there was some good stuff I had to edit out to keep it under 10 minutes...but my mom, she does have a way with words!

[@ClosetTransgender]

It's like having a personal cheer leader! Thanks! I feel like I should clap or something.

[@CrisPAY89]

That's awesome dude, I'm happy for you that your parents were accepting!

[@Northings]

You are wonderful Forest. This video was amazing, as all your videos are. Many thanks for sharing.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@DannyOldboy2050 Sometimes I just can't believe how lucky I am. I swear growing up seemed so much harder, but this conversation shows me that much of my pain was in my head, stuck in there, and I wasn't always aware of the love around me.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@zaynlauragabriel I hope things are going well! There are accepting people all over the world! And sometimes it just takes time to get to that level. Thank you for everything! Love to you!

[@markreilly52]

I am really impressed by your parents. It is unfortunate that we often have to grow up to realise how much they understood and wanted to support us.

[@ClosetTransgender]

Thanks for these wonderful comments. I hope this video helps those transgender people as well as parents of transgender children. That's what is so beautiful about this video, my parents, who really surprised me with their responses, and I want other parents so see how easy it can be... I know... all kinds of circumstances, but when it comes down to it, acceptance helps everyone involved...

[@ClosetTransgender]

@TheLaughingOut Thank you. I was surprised beyond my expectations. Gave me alot to think about..

[@ClosetTransgender]

@QuinlanMiller Thank you so much for sharing your reaction. Honesty touches a deep place. I really appreciate your support.

[@jarretteason7678]

I wish my parents were as understanding...

[@tinusturnus4208]

Thanks for all your videos, Forest. If you happen to be in Germany any time, I'd love to catch up with you and have a talk.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@CHRISTIANNWO Thanks for ur comment, U ask a good question. When someone isn't familiar with something,it all sounds the same. It's like how old people think Nirvana and SickPuppy sound the same. Or how nonfootballers at first get mixedup & say, "Full back, line back-They should just be offense and defense, cuz I get all the position names mixed up." "Gay" and "transgender" have different meanings, & if U are honestly curious I could explain, but if you don't care, then does it really matter?

[@ClosetTransgender]

@BlatantGenderFuck I would love it if you were my neighbor!!! I think there is something innately human about loving and accepting people. It's not just a geographical thing. I do however wish it was a stronger lesson taught in our global culture. When there is honesty and acceptance, everybody wins!

[@ravensilverleaf]

What awesome parents! You are lucky!

[@Jaiden7fold]

Amazing video!! Thanks so much for sharing!!

[@mcsachsenhausen]

German mom ! I lived in Germany!!!!! love Germany!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@superotter77 Yeah! That was cool to hear. Thanks so much for the comment!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@tincantransmission This video gives me a pretty good feeling too. Thanks so much for the great comment! Plus I like picturing your big grin.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@Jaiden7fold Hey! I'm glad you are watching, you must be back from all your trucking and road trippin!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@anotherloaner This comment made her smile, and maybe even blush! Love you too man.

[@infrequentvlogs]

Very nice, candid video again

[@ClosetTransgender]

I try to be thankful everyday. Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@spenceoverthefence7119]

Awesome parents you have, You are a very lucky guy :)

[@ClosetTransgender]

@1Gunners1 Thank you so much for the wonderful comment. Warm fuzzy.

[@BreakerInc]

IS/Trans - FtM here. :)

[@ClosetTransgender]

@hcimmt This is my favorite video of all! Plus it felt so good to make.

[@Zedie36]

last comment: "sturdy little girl" is so stereotypically german. are you sure you weren't born in germany? i dunno, maybe you were? :) i haven't seen my little mammal today. my wife left early & took our little mammal to omama's for the day. this video makes me sooo frickin' excited to see them both when they get home!!! we chose not to know the sex of our mammal before birth. all we cared about was that our good friend finished cross-stitching an oatmeal onesie that said in red: ready to be ME.

[@EmoGirlRPO]

THANKS

[@ClosetTransgender]

There you go!

[@eternalchild11]

Your parents are really cool! :)

[@austinsanner5101]

I'm watching both your per t videos and your t videos. First of all, you were meant to be a man. Its obvious. Also, loving the accent! My family is of Austrian Descent. I agree with the guy about God being in this video. You have an amazing family and may God bless you greatly! Hugs!

[@OckGal]

Aw, you have awesome parents! Hummingbird feeder! What's your mom's accent?

[@reneerobinson3559]

Your moms voice makes me miss Germany and German cookies, not to assume she knows how to make those. Your dad is cute.

[@ClosetTransgender]

+Nicole Robinson lol! My mom loves to bake! They are cuties, very thank for their support. Thank you with all my heart Nicole, your comments have been so kind, it makes me want to eat cookies in Germany with you!

[@reneerobinson3559]

@ClosetTransgender, ich auch!

[@TheLaughingOut]

You are a very lucky man.

[@ClosetTransgender]

I hope you are doing ok buddy!

[@vinicosmos]

You are sooo handsome... and cute....

[@ClosetTransgender]

@eternalchild11 I am so thankful!

[@ClosetTransgender]

@JanIsBoy5 Thank you so much.

[@ClosetTransgender]

@Graziella2006 So you had an grandma instead of an Oma? Thanks so much for watching my videos.

[@metaladdict51]

Are you of Austrian descent? Your mother's accent sounds like my great grandmother's, who is Austrian.

[@julielevesque6034]

That explains your accent!

[@DanniJules]

wow your mum noticed more than my mum. this looks interesting to do, but i dont have the balls lol

[@ClosetTransgender]

@qtownboi88 YES!