Why take hormones?

[anima-engine.livejournal.com]

I can feel the laser-scopes focusing upon my avatar as I type this. Hold your fire please, hold your fire! :o I'm not trying to be controversial nor test your patience. I genuinely want your honest opinions. Many internet websites cover the biological effects of hormones (the "what's" and "how's"), but few if any discuss the "why's".

So... if you can spare the time, will you share with me the reasons why you are taking them and what made you decide to start?

Note: I am not seeking a hormone regimen at this time.