I am sorry you have such a visceral reaction to the image of a gender with the opposite gender's genitals. That's unfortunate. How'd you come to feel such absolute disgust? I
How is it that you "recognize" the mental disorder associated? What exactly do you mean by that? Associated with what? One's sexuality? How one identifies? What led you to reach such a conclusion? I would genuinely like to know your thoughts here and how it is you came to feel like you do.
Cuz, realizing oneself to be transgendered is not any more a mental disorder than me realizing I was gay, or you realizing you are/were straight. Let me ask you this: When did you know you were straight? That you also liked peen? Do you have a mental disorder? Would your straight friends think you have a mental disorder if they knew you hook(ed) up with a gay guy friend? Perhaps you are just wired that way? Regardless, it's okay. Because you are being you. Just like transgendered people are being them. It truly is how they are wired!
Like so many here, I have real life experience and friendships with transgendered people. With my two best friends who had transitioned before I met them, as well as males I've known who've transitioned; I was fortunate to witness their journeys. And in EVERY case, they didn't want to transition, they NEEDED to transition.
It's a fascinating world out there, and my goodness, you live in Washington DC, a huge melting pot of all types and kinds of sexualities and sexual proclivities. You'd be surprised how many people you might encounter each day who just may not be exactly who you think they are compared to what their exterior presents. And that's a good thing. Cuz they are just like you and me. People being who they are.