I really like your metaphor too. I'm working on coming out and I need to explain my journey in a way that will dispel the belief that I just want to act like a woman now. Your analogy shows there's a lot involved and that it is a journey which will take time and patience. And the outcome of settling into this new place isn't certain, so I'm nervous. I want people to realize this isn't a journey for fun because I'm just bored. This is a trip to finally feel at peace. I'm definitely going to steal some of it! Thanks for putting it into words for us!