I see it the same way, actually, Julie.
In a weird way, transsexuals are some of the most masculine creatures, with respect to "vortus" (Greek for virtue).
Planning, commitment, showing up day after day, doing the work, making whatever progress they can, and enduring all sorts of losses and pains mostly with a stoic's composure (at least on the outside....)
It's amazing.
Especially since they become so feminine by the end!
So many emos could learn a thing oe fifty!
Including a lot of males. Masculinity is in short supply. So is femininity these days...
I think we're seeking a balance the world denies.
-Dianna