Contrary to Popular Belief

             I’m probably going to make a lot of people mad when I say this, but…I don’t like tacos. Actually, let me re-phrase that. I don’t like traditional tacos. I’ve had brisket and pulled pork and chicken BLT tacos and they were all amazing. But regular old Taco Tuesday does nothing for me.

This alone isn’t really that shocking. I mean, tons of people have food preferences and it’s not really an earth-shattering revelation. But I also don’t like iced coffee. Or Taylor Swift’s music. Or margaritas. Or those Stanley cups. I didn’t watch The Tiger King or Squid Game. I didn’t participate in the Ice Bucket Challenge, or take part in the Dubai chocolate movement, and I think the fashion trends are mostly ugly and uncomfortable.

All of which makes me wonder if my subconscious is contrary on accident or if it is on purpose? I am in favor of embracing what makes a person unique, but going out of your way to avoid popular trends seems counterintuitive. (Yet apparently, on brand for me.)

Perhaps it’s because I’m a Gen X. Or because I’m a “stubborn” Taurus. Eldest daughter syndrome maybe? Or is it that this trifecta has culminated in a perfect storm of “You’re not going to tell me what I like”. Because that’s what it really boils down to, right? Bucking the general consensus that is trying to dictate what society likes at a specific moment in time?

I think I just accidentally shrunk my own head and explained my entire life to myself. Hold on a minute while I recover.

Okay, reloading...

Every time I wish that I conformed to societal norms, do I really only have myself to blame? Like when I'm annoyed that I can't buy the shirt that says "Buy me tacos and tell me I'm pretty?" because I don't want tacos. Yeah, I like to joke that I’m petty but if it’s inherently an ingrained trait that I haven’t had to consciously cultivate, I think that brings it to a whole new level of petty. I don’t even think that’s a strong enough word description. Is there a pettier word for petty? Pettyful? Pettytastic? Super-cali-fragi-listic-petty-ala-docious?

Personally, I might be a little proud that my individualistic tendencies are so strong that I don’t even have to put thought into them. I subconsciously reject all super-pop culture on principle. (Which to be honest, requires less mental effort and keeps my mental load lighter, so why would I ever complain?)

Plus, it’s not like I’ve ever been “normal”. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum. I have encouraged my kids to do the same. Normal is overrated and quite frankly, extremely boring. Would you rather hang out with the friend who talks about the weather and current events or the one who is slightly unhinged and you never know what they’re going to say next? I know which one I’d choose, and choose to be, so if you choose door number 1, we are not the same.

For all my fellow odd ducks, black sheep, and anti-followers, I hope you find your tribe. May they find your eccentricities endearing, your quirks to be par for the course, and your individuality inspiring.

 Now pardon me while I try to find a shirt that says:

Buy me books, and tell me I'm pretty weird.

 

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