For whatever reason, I’ve felt compelled to share some of my beliefs, issues, truths in a short, concise manner. You know, to be vulnerable in front of all five of my blog readers. LOL (*sigh*) Here goes:
Religion vs. Spirituality: I was raised in the Christian church. In my mid-30s, I started working through the ideas/concepts/guidelines presented and found I wasn’t as much religious as I was spiritual. I find truth in many Buddhist teachings, as well as some of the beliefs found in Native American culture. My tattoos represent both of those.
Anxiety and Depression: Although undiagnosed, I know that I suffer from anxiety and that it is getting a bit worse every passing year. I’m learning how to handle it better when it strikes, along with doing my best to avoid putting myself in situations that would exacerbate it. Likewise with depression … undiagnosed but – surprisingly – has gotten a bit better in the last year. Letting go of some situations and memories has helped. As have my tattoos.
Trust: As I was growing up, I was a fairly trusting person. However, in 1999, a person in my life shared information about me to others without my knowledge or permission. There have been other people in my life along the way that turned out to be considerably different than they originally lead me to believe, as well. Consequently, I have an “I don’t trust anyone” mentality now unless/until the opportunities arise for their trust to be gained. Oh, if you have gained my trust and then lie to me? We’re done. It won’t be dramatic. You’ll just never hear from me again.
Circle of Friends: This is connected to the topic of trust. I used to talk to all my friends about anything in my life. Until my personal business started getting shared with people I didn’t even know. As I’ve gotten older, my circle has gotten smaller and smaller and I’ve come to define my connections as follows: Acquaintances – people whose names I know; Good Acquaintances – people whom I’ve worked around or with and see somewhat regularly; Friends – people I see regularly but only share surface information with; Close Friends – people I know fairly well and share perhaps a bit more than surface information with; Best Friends – I only have two and I can tell them anything without fear.
Acceptance: You live your life how you see called to do so. Unless you are committing crimes, or your actions threaten me and mine, you do you. I can support the person even if I disagree or don’t understand their choices. I’ve been a social liberal as long as I can remember.
Self-Love: I spent much of my life – both personal and professional – being a giver and putting everyone and everything ahead of myself. Looking back at situations, I can easily say I was a doormat for many and allowed myself to being taken advantage of and taken for granted. In this current chapter of my life, I am putting myself first. My physical and mental health needs have quickly become a priority. If I’m not okay, I’m no good to anyone else.
Other Stuff: I have a resting bitch face to rival many (and a Jeep grill to match). I base my opinions on my own research and don’t follow the masses because it’s trendy. I don’t do much of anything that’s actually considered trendy! I have an attitude (hey – I’m nearly 68; I’ve earned every bit of it!). I speak my mind, and yes, it does get me in trouble. I’m very awkward in public around people I don’t know – and sometimes around people I do know. I don't suffer fools gladly. I’m not good with power tools, but I can organize the heck out of your shop. I’m sure there’s more … just can’t think of any at the moment.
Anyway, those are my truths. Do you know what yours are? No need to be wishy-washy – just go your own way. Be your own person with your own ideas and convictions and follow your own path. Hopefully, you won’t have to be my age before you figure it out.
Cheers!