Appearances

I grew up with the belief that appearances where everything. What was happening on the inside of our home wasn’t reflected to the outside world. I think it was pretty much the norm. Nobody aired their dirty laundry. We simply kept up a facade. Now, I am not saying that my home growing up was build on a foundation of secrets or lies. I had a really great childhood, but it was always understood that we keep our business to ourselves.

When my spouse decided to live a life of sobriety, I remember my Mother not understanding why we were so vocal about his recovery. You see, alcoholism was a bit taboo, I suppose, in her day. But, our belief is that you never know who you are going to help by sharing your story. It isn’t as though we shout it from the rooftops, but there are moments where it is more than appropriate. Our life is not all rainbows and butterflies. I guess there are those people who want to present this perfect picture, but that isn’t our reality.

As a writer, my observation of people is one of my favorite skills. Recently, I have had a lot of experience mixing in public settings. You all know how I love to be in solitude. Crowds of people give me the willies. However, when I am asked to be of service, experience dictates that these opportunities present themselves for a reason. They reiterate that other people’s actions are not a reflection of me. I used to make excuses or apologize for a loved one’s bad behavior. Now, I just sit back and watch the shit show unfold. It is freeing when I no longer take responsibility for anyone else’s actions/reactions.

Keeping up appearances is exhausting. My mindset is what you see, is what you get. I am a slightly sarcastic, middle-age woman who loves animals more than people. If that isn’t your cup of tea, I bid you farewell and wish you a life of bliss. Experience dictates that I don’t have to keep up appearances and transparency makes life more colorful.