Living in LA, I sometimes get caught up in the "keeping up with the Jones'" mentality. I have a bunch of friends who are really fashionable, who know where all the hot spots are and eat at all the trendy restaurants. I also know people who are highly educated, cultured, and well traveled. Then there are those who are the highly professional types. The ones with no kids, impressive resumes and immaculate homes. I have finally realized that I don't fit into those categories...nor do I need to (sigh of relief).
In the past, answering a question about the type of music I like after listening to someone go on and on about which opera has the most impressive aria, would have embarrassed me. No more. The old me would have blushed with humiliation when asked where I bought my latest outfit (Target is fashionable, right?). Not the new me.
You see, I had an experience recently that changed all that...an experience that seemed rather insignificant, but it wasn't for me. It made me realize that you need to push yourself to be better, but you still have to be true to who you are.
After my trip to Canada, I was in kind of a lull as far as exercise goes. I felt like I needed a change. So, instead of heading back to the local YMCA, I tried out the Spectrum Athletic Club. Spectrum is bigger, more expensive and MUCH nicer. Spectrum was so nice that even the locker room looked like a day spa. The equipment was all new and fun to use. There was never a line to get on the treadmill. The fitness rooms were huge and air conditioned. They had a towel service and free Internet. This gym was perfect, BUT after my two week trial period was up...I went back to the YMCA.
When I walked back into the Y on Monday, I felt like I was home again. I saw the weird lady who used to come to kickboxing with her coffee in hand and did anything but what the teacher would do. I ran into a friend from church. I saw the over friendly guy who looks like he used to be a body builder a LONG time ago. I saw my old step aerobics teacher. I saw Jordan's first swimming teacher. I saw that softball coach that I seem to see everywhere. And then I saw that all the treadmills were full and the fans were working overtime. As I stretched out and waiting for a treadmill, I thought to myself "these are my people." I don't belong at a snooty, fancy fitness club...and that's okay.
The joy I find in life is from my family, my friends, my kitties, my trashy TV shows, a good book, my top 40 radio station, my little family outings, my God, and my church. I'd rather watch a taping of Conan than catch a viewing of the new art exhibit at The Getty. I'd rather stay home with my kids than chase after a time consuming career in Hollywood. I'd rather roughhouse in the backyard than make sure my house is updated and stylish. I live a simple life in the middle of a crazy chaotic city and I wouldn't have it any other way (except living a simple life in a smaller town further outside the city and closer to my family!!). It feels good to just be me.
My kiddos all harnessed up and ready to go on a SUPER bouncy trampoline!
LOVE THEM!!!
And here's a new one of Peeta...he is just TOO cute to leave out of a post:)!!
2 comments:
Wow Anita, what a great post and good for you for being true to yourself! I have been feeling the same way for quite some time. It came to me while living out west in NM in a very utahesque ward. I too had a hard time with the "keeping up mentality" that is prevalent among LDS members who live in close proximity, and I also hated that my life outside of church was so intertwined with life within. (Though I freely admit I do enjoy decorating my home, I have always had a penchant for shopping, and love to throw a good party. But I always felt that is because that is who I am and not because I was supposed to love those things.) Sometimes it is so hard to be true to ourselves but it really is so much better for us when we are. I am so glad to be back in the southeast with my own people too.
I read this at a really good time... It's so true that it's better to be ourselves, and that comparing ourselves to others isn't really helpful :). We all think you are amazing just as you are, by the way!
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