Mini Memoir 10

What role did your family’s expectations play in your choice of occupation?

My family was really happy with whatever I chose to do but my mom was a little startled when announced I wanted to switch majors to counseling and human services (I know you can’t make big decisions wen you’re manic but it was actually the right call. Counseling would have been better for me).

How did you embrace or rebel against those expectations?

I didn’t really do either. They wanted an honest job for me and I’ve only accepted money for hard work. They never set up unrealistic expectations. After I left school they saw me try a number of jobs and really struggle. Now they see me happy as a writer (primarily) and so I think they are happy too. I also have gotten a job at a senior center but I haven’t started yet.

How much of your career decision was based on a desire for a high income? A natural talent or strong intellectual interest? A wish to help people or contribute to society?

I never wanted a job for money (case in point: the camp I worked at for the sick kids paid less than minimum wage, essentially a volunteering job). I would value things ahead of money: family and other relationships. I knew  I’d never be a high powered lawyer or a doctor like I knew I didn’t want an Ivy League school. I wanted to be a counselor to help others.

What is the wildest party you ever attended, threw for yourself or got thrown out of?

I guess my 21st birthday party. There was a guy who had never really drank before and he kissed me then threw up on my couch. He was nice but you know he also crashed my party.

What was the biggest financial gamble you ever took?

I have never gambled except at the farm. I did win ten dollars once.

How did it play out?

I am glad I don’t have a gambling problem because I usually lose. Oh and if it’s any indication I suck at Monopoly

Biggest emotional risk (and outcome): 

I think either dating —--- or —--. Both guys were covered in red flags. I got in trouble with my parents. I got placed in very dangerous situations. Eventually I ended up hurting them.

Biggest risk to your physical safety (and outcome)

I will say dating —-----. There were times when I thought he was going to hurt me physically especially since he had such a temper. He definitely said some hurtful things to me and violated me sexually so I was probably right in my suspicions

How did you go about meeting lovers and friends at this stage in your life?

I met most of my friends at a place called Rockland Poets. It’s an organization that has poetry slams and poetry open mics. I’ve met my current best friends there.

What opportunity for money or love did you pass up? Do you ever regret it?

I regret that —----- and I broke up so early in our relationship but I’m with Justin now and he’s my soul mate. I also regret dating —-------. I should have passed that one up.

Describe your most romantic date:

I really enjoyed when Justinn took me to the Melting Pot for my 27th birthday. Not only was it a great fondue place he called ahead to let them know it was my birthday. They had rose petals and balloons on the table and everything.