Reid Caelum

Being a transgender man, for me, has been a quiet, persistent knowing that followed me long before I had language for it. It showed up in small moments in how I imagined myself, the way certain words felt wrong on my skin, the relief I felt the first time someone saw me as I truly am—and in the fear that came with admitting that truth out loud.

Living as myself now feels like choosing honesty every day, even when it’s hard or uncomfortable. I am still becoming, still learning what manhood means to me, but I move through the world with more peace than I ever thought possible.

Being a good man, to me, means modeling the kind of gentleness and integrity I want my sons to carry into the world. I think about it in everyday choices about how I speak when I’m tired, how I apologize when I’m wrong, and how I show them that strength can look like patience, honesty, and care.

Being a father to two young boys is both grounding and humbling in ways I never expected. Watching them learn who they are reminds me daily that my greatest responsibility isn’t to be perfect, but to be present, loving, and brave enough to grow alongside them.