[Maru]

I don't feel we got to know them that to depth to give it that deep of a thought. Regardless, it's a bit awkward as a grown adult to label anyone a "role model" whom I have no direct connection with. It would be a burden for them, not a blessing.

Hallie did provide positive reasons to have a rethink on some things and I never did get the feeling they were forced on the public to the extent it normally would be, so that's a welcome shift. I knew someone pre-trans when I was much younger and their commentary and their handling of emotions was very similar. I don't even think there was a word for it then because this was well before it became trendy to transition. It was just expressed as "I'm not actually this gender", and it was a feeling that consumed them all the time. They had no exposure to trans-positive media obviously, but this was also before they were able to join any community. So it does exist outside of the pop culture phenomena.

If Hallie can walk back into her life more secure with whoever they are on the inside, that would be a net "win" in my book, because showing how it can be done without promptly being stuffed into another box is a net positive. Whatever impression they left behind would be whatever it would be, but part of a greater exposure to individuals who happen to occupy a certain group (i.e. "representation").

However, if one goes on to live a fake life on social media, then "I want to be a role model for others" was just code for aspiring celebrity lol. Nothing wrong with becoming a public figure, but that person becomes a brand. They're not an individual anymore because there will always be expectations that they present a certain way.