I at least can't find any insult in the highlighted. Many young people go through a process of exploration regarding their own gender identity as well as sexuality. I wish family, friends, and other onlookers would stop freaking out about it. That just adds to stress, misunderstanding, and potentially more risky behaviors. Is it better to experiment like you did and learn first hand that the masculine "you" wasn't comfortable; or forever to have that possibility lurk at the back of your mind, a forbidden fruit to remain untasted, or to explode in midlife perhaps, when much more is at stake? The former seems much healthier and more constructive.
I grew up in an environment surprisingly free of gender-related pressures, or perhaps I just managed to ignore them. Expectations at home at least were quite even handed. I have started wondering lately if that is a double edged sword when it comes to gender identity. In one sense, it should leave you free to develop the identity that is real for you. In another sense, not being continually forced into gender-based roles and expectations can mask the disconnect between the internal and the external, since when you are allowed to live your life pretty much as you want, it doesn't really matter that much, does it?
Yes, there are many ways to be feminine, and to be a woman (not synonymous). Find the way that's right for you, the way that IS you, and don't worry about the rest.
I agree with this. I don't know if it is because I have 4 last, but I also find many things are best understood in an individualistic manner, at least inter/intrapersonally. To do otherwise is to deny reality. At best, a normative approach is like the shoe store. Few of us get custom made footwear any more, we go to the store and find the size that most closely approximates our feet. The range of sizes available in the store, however, says nothing about the size and shape of the feet we actually have.
I, too, have no patience with what you call gender framing here, and like you, choose what I do based on interest, enjoyment, and sometimes necessity. I ignore the assumptions they carry.