Do you ever say yes to something when you really want to say no? Isn't it the worst?
I have a hunch we are better at spotting this on the small scale (I wish I'd said no to this event,) than the large scale, where it really matters (I wish I'd said no to this major life choice.) Some of those major life choices just seem predestined, handed down to us in such an expected way that we forget we have a choice at all.
When we remember we have a choice, we are empowered. When we choose something "unconventional" or "nontraditional," we exercise power over our own lives.
I didn't write this list to brag or show off, although I can see how it might come off that way.
I simply believe that by being honest about the ways I've chosen to do the unexpected, it might help someone else feel OK about making the "weird" choice. (Or being in the "weird" situation, as not all of these are conscious choices exactly.)
So I guess what I'm saying is... Here's to being unconventional!
OK, here goes:
- I had my first child when I was 19.
- I've been with my partner, Jason, almost 8 years. We don't own property together. We don't share any bank accounts. We're not married. We don't ever plan to get married. However, I would still like to come to your wedding. I think they're fun! Please invite me.
- Jason and I don't have any kids together, and we don't plan to, but he has been around since my youngest was 1 year old and my oldest was 7.
- After my divorce, I didn't go back to my maiden name. I chose a new last name from my maternal grandmother's side of the family.
- Jason, the kids, and I all have different last names. So there are 4 on our mailbox.
- I don't send Christmas cards. I think they're just a total pain at an already crazy time of year. However, I like getting your Holiday cards, so please keep sending them. If you want.
- I didn't finish my bachelor's degree until I was 30. It took me 10 years and I changed schools and majors several times, until finally settling on a self-designed Women's Studies major from Lesley University.
- I have performed in burlesque shows (for fun, and sometimes dressed as a dude) and worked at strip clubs (mainly to pay the bills when I was young and poor.)
- I saved up and bought my own condo at age 22.
- I don't have any tattoos. It's a commitment thing. However, I love your tattoos. Very much.
- I never dyed my hair until I was in my thirties and now I cannot stop putting rainbow colors in it. In fact, I refuse to stop.
- Highly mentholated products such as Altoids mints make me sneeze. There's nothing anyone can do about it.
- I have been through domestic violence. It was awful. Sadly, I don't think this is "unconventional," but talking about it definitely is.
- I play the ukulele.
- I consider myself a feminist, and enjoy using the "F" word shamelessly. (I also enjoy saying "fuck." It helps me express myself.)
You're still here? Nice! What fun facts don't I know about you yet? Will you share them in the comments?
Also, would you like to see any of the topics above expanded into its own post? Let me know!
