Have you ever quit a job, left a school, abandoned a group of any kind simply because you couldn’t bear to spend one more day in an environment that didn’t fit you? Have you ever turned your back on a relationship because of divergent values? Walked away from a conversation out of protest? And what…
The world prefers people who fit in. There’s nothing wrong with fitting in—it’s what enables most systems to function well. But here’s the problem. Many of these societal systems, such as our schools, workplaces, and even churches, benefit only people who fit into the mold. When a child is born with Down syndrome or brown…
“Achoo!” We turned the corner of our neighborhood walking trail as my nine-year-old daughter let loose a sneeze. “Bless you,” I said. “Thanks, Mom.” And then—from the mouths of babes. “The spring is so pretty, with all the green leaves and flowers. The only problem is the pollen. Why does it ruin our spring?” Why,…
We had been waiting in line for, well, as long as you wait in a line at Disney World. When it was our turn, my girls would be riding Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin together while Joe, my husband, and I shared a spaceship with our preteen son, Peyton. The ride involves a game where…
A couple of years ago, I needed to sew a hem in some pants for my son for his choir concert. At that time, the most sewing experience I had was a semester in seventh grade. I had forgotten most of the basics, and the sewing machine I owned was still in the box. So,…
We all have likes and dislikes that make us unique. We form allegiances and make them part of our identity. We proudly proclaim our loyalty to a person, place, or thing, perhaps by wearing our college apparel well past our higher education days or by tattooing the initials of our kids or spouse on our…