text: When I read this article I let out a sigh of relief that I didn't realize I was holding.  I had started to believe that I was one of the only sane people left when thinking about this topic, but saying anything might produce a lynch mob.  A friend of mine has a step-daughter who decided one day (and it seemed to everyone that it was just that fast) to have gender re-assignment.  Three years later, he is depressed and miserable, not understanding why the dynamics in his relationships have changed.  He was seeking the attention and the 'special status', not realizing that this would be his life.  He is an individual who needed soft experience before the drastic measures but the system not only allowed him but almost encouraged him to do as he wanted.  Now the family is in turmoil.  Thanks for his article - it's bringing the sensible people to the table.