" It’s not a cis-man becoming a cis-woman. It’s a trans person just being who they want to be. This is how I’ve always felt, and this is who I’ve always been. But so much focus is put on the transition or the change because it’s so visible. But that’s not even what it is… That’s who that person’s been and who they are now. "
- Teddy Geiger

The quote speaks about the journey of self-discovery and acceptance that transgender individuals often experience. It emphasizes that transitioning does not change who a person truly is; rather, it allows them to live openly as their authentic selves. The speaker asserts that they have always felt like their true identity was being suppressed until they could transition.

At its core, the quote highlights the broader societal misunderstanding of what it means for someone to be transgender. There is often too much focus on the physical and visible changes during a transition process, which can obscure the fact that these individuals are simply seeking to live in alignment with their true identity. This misconception can make it seem like there is a sudden transformation when, in reality, transitioning is about recognizing and affirming an inherent sense of self that has always been present but concealed by societal expectations or fear of judgment. The quote encourages others to look beyond the surface-level changes and see the deep-rooted truth of who a transgender person truly is from within.

Teddy Geiger is a notable American musician, songwriter, and public figure known for their honest discussions about gender identity. Their music often reflects themes related to self-acceptance and authenticity, resonating deeply with many in the LGBTQ+ community. Through their art and activism, Teddy has helped to shed light on the struggles faced by transgender individuals while advocating for greater understanding and acceptance within society.