While I tend to leave my past behind remarkably easily (I have no life-long friends and have only maintained one friendship from high school) I don’t tend to be a risk taker.
When you think of someone who trots from one phase of life to the next with no real ties to her past, you think of someone who takes risks and tries something completely new and different. But that’s never been me. I always make the safe choice.
I chose my high school because I had family history there, a dad next door, and knew few people from summer camp. I chose my college because I wanted to stay in-state to cut costs and, frankly, I was scared to move away from my family (although I did live on my own for the most part). I never studied abroad because spending all that money seemed frivolous. I worked in restaurants because it seemed the surest way to make money.
Every choice I make seems to be the practical one. And while it may not be a thrilling life, I’ve still found it incredibly fulfilling. I’ve made wonderful friends and had amazing experiences. I’ve met a wonderful man who has become my husband and have maintained strong ties to all of my family. I’ve branched out just enough to feel that I’ve “lived a little”, but stayed close to my roots.
I may not be plowing any new trails, but I’m still mostly happy with the choices I’ve made on this well-worn path.
