Tuesday, February 24, 2009

In defense of being a 'non-traditional' woman

My whole life I've never wanted the 'traditional' things most girls want. When I was growing up...even well into high school, I never wanted to marry or have children. I wanted a career, to live in the big city, to have adventure.


I've been in a sudden existential crisis the last few days with the thought of turning 39 in a month or so. I look back on my life and wonder 'what if'. It has made me sad a few times. However, this morning I woke up and for some reason I was pissed off (excuse the crudeness).

So what if my life doesn't look what other people think it should? It's mine. I've worked hard to get where I am today. I have worked hard to keep a happy marriage. During the hard times I could have easily walked away and no one would have thought less of me. However, I have stuck with it and I am incredibly happy as a result.

I sometimes think I am a disappointment to those around me. I don't have children, I am not wealthy, I dont own my own home, at times my honey and I yell at each other. I still have a VERY bad temper that I struggle daily with controlling.

However, what ticked me off , was the thought of society judging me for not having or wanting a 'traditional' lifestyle. So what if my life doesn't look like most peoples. I don't have 2.5 kids, or a house in the suburbs. What I do have is life that is so incrediably full that it brings me joy on a daily basis. I have a job I love, a man who is the best husband and friend for me and my quirkiness, and I have friends and family who bring even more love and happiness to my life. Who could ask for more?

Will I regret one day not having children and embracing a more 'traditional' lifestyle? Possibly. However, when that happens I know I will have my friends to fall back and help me see that we can't all possibly be alike or the world would be a boring place, not the crazy adventure it is.

3 comments:

  1. i think it sounds like you have a wonderful life! no kids and always putting yourself and your man first. no need to get tied down :) people who talk crap are just jealous that you have a life of freedom rather than dirty diapers, sleep-full nights, and drool all over your clothes! :)

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  2. I don't care what you do in your life, I love you for who you are. You will always be one of the best friends I've had and you are more like family to me.

    Who gives a flip HOW you live your life? If they care, they don't really matter (ok....unless you were a jobless, drunk and cracked out hooker? LOL).

    You are AWESOME Julie <3. Plus, if everyone had the same life, it would be a VERY boring world- don't you think?

    PS If someone is giving you heck LMK I'll come smack them for you ;-).

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  3. Lol! Thanks Donna and Alycia. I appreciate the good comments... Please don't go around smacking people Donna :P Although I appreciate the thought . Love you too!

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