I think I have split personalities?? One of my identities has opinions that I want to live by, regardless or not if society agrees with them, and this is the identity that I hope defines me. These strong opinions include such things as…I don’t want a fancy life. I want to work hard for everything I ever have- whether it be my home or my family. I want to earn it by working hard every single day. And when I get that house, it doesn’t need to be some huge fancy house. I just want it to embody me and my future husband (Matt, duh)….our character, our taste…I want it to be comfortable, clean and unique. Like...we love the idea of searching for second hand furniture. Not only would it be us doing our part in conserving materials but we think you can find some really beautiful and high quality pieces that just aren’t quite as available today. I also don’t want a flashy diamond engagement ring. To me, the traditional band is beautiful because of what it represents. These days, when a girl says she is engaged, most people’s first response is, “Let me see the ring!” Really? How about- “It’s amazing that you’ve found a LIFE PARTNER, someone you love and want to build a life with!” I don’t want to get caught up in the image side of that, I want to celebrate the union and I don’t think a ring should be a part of that celebration. These are examples of the kind of life I want and hope to live.
Occasionally my other side kicks in. Why on earth do I get so easily caught up in the ooohs and aaaahs of wealth, bling, and the societal definition of success? I’ll be honest; there are certain diamond rings that make me stare (like the one above....seriously?!). In fact I tried on even just a band with diamonds on it and couldn’t help but love it. Does that mean I’m buying into these standards of society? Certain homes (like the one my friend and her loaded NY trader boyfriend live in) make me feel slightly….envious… Saying that just makes me cringe! I can’t help but sometimes daydream about that sort of glamorous lifestyle. While I definitely try to keep myself in check with what I feel is in line with my priorities and expectations, which ultimately lead me to a simple and modest lifestyle, I guess I can see how people can get so caught up in the glitz and glam. I suppose there are people who can juggle both and props to them. I just hope that I always stay honest…and true to myself. I don’t want to get swayed by the lifestyles and choices of others, and I hate that sometimes I do! Oh life- you tricky little devil you!
Funny ring story to tell you later. Actually, more pathetic than funny but you have to hear it to believe it. I'm rambling...
ReplyDeleteI struggled with the ring thing myself. I was worried that people would make judgements about whatever type of ring we settled on - be it 'too extravagant' or 'so plain'. And then I thought.... who cares!!! I appreciated that, for us, the ring came last - our commitment came first.
Just do what you love and what you know feels right. I know you do :)