DEAR ABBY: I am a 65-year-old cross-dresser who has a deep, burning desire to be a woman. I guess you could call me gender dysphoric. I will never realize this dream of mine, though, and I have accepted myself as I am and have learned to live with it. I am not depressed.
My situation is difficult because my wife does not approve, so I try to be discreet. Sometimes I underdress and finish my hair and makeup in the car in a park. Then I'll walk or go shopping. I like people to see me like this. Because they don't know me, I'm sure sometimes they see a man in a dress, but I don't mind.
However, I am always alone in my altered state and all the groups meet at night. I'm a daytime person, and it's much easier to get out as "Sheila" in the late mornings and early afternoons. Is there some way for me to find some groups that meet in the afternoon? Is there someone I can contact? I appreciate your help. -- JUST A DREAM
DEAR JUST A DREAM: An organization that has appeared in my column before may be helpful for you. It's the Society for the Second Self (Tri-Ess International), and it offers not only support for heterosexual cross-dressers, but also their spouses, partners and families.
It's the oldest and largest support organization for cross-dressers and the people who love them. It promotes cross-dressing with dignity and decency, and treats spouses on an equal basis with their cross-dressers. To learn more about it, contact Tri-Ess at www.tri-ess.org.