Pick One

Well, after a short hiatus, I’m back.  Whew.  The last few weeks have felt like someone put a brick on the gas pedal and I’ve been going 130 in an 80 zone (not that I’ve EVER done that, it’s simply a metaphor).  Life got extraordinarily busy, AND interesting, AND challenging AND fun all at the same time  Speeding is not a good thing for a type 'A' over-analytical control-freak perfectionist who is trying to find Qi, and serenity and balance.  

Livin' in the fast lane.  That's the life of a Superwoman.

Now, I’m not claiming to be a superwoman, but for some insane reason, I really really REALLY want to be one.  I’m probably drawn to the way-cool costume with great accessories. But c'mon?!  Who can resist knee length patent leather red boots and a cape to match?  I’m seeing a tiara and maybe a funky locket that houses a secret crystal from a mystical planet that is the source for my superhuman powers...yet I digress.  Whatever the reason, I am taking great masochistic pleasure in turning myself inside out trying to over-achieve in all four quadrants of my life: family, work, home and health.  Want to know how I’m doing?  As I type, I’m doing kegels, baking muffins, filling out permission slips and reviewing work for tomorrow....   

I know I’m not alone.  There are many who aspire to super-human status.  Think that might be you?  Answer these six questions:

1. Do you run a ‘things I have to do today’ list while showering? Has the drafting of said list caused you to forget to shave an entire leg upon exiting the shower? (This is worse if you’re a guy).
2. Have you ever decided that stale crackers and a packet of mayonnaise at your desk represents a balanced lunch?
3. Can you locate dog treats, work receipts, vitamins and silly bands in your suit pocket?
4. Do you consider crafting sandwich buddies for lunches your creative outlet?
5. Do you catch yourself wondering how the ‘Mystery of the Fairyland Secret’ will end?
6. Is meditation ever interrupted by the sound of your own snoring?

If you answered ‘yes’ to these questions, I’m not sure I should congratulate you...

Was it simpler in the good ol’ days?  I just recently finished ingesting four seasons of MadMen.  According to my reliable source (cable television), in the early 60’s women were summarily categorized; vixen, wife, mother, working woman, or bohemian.  It appears women were relegated to a single category, but not two at once.  At the end of each episode one question kept swirling itself around in my mind; I wonder if it was easier with the rigid iron clad gender roles or more difficult?  I’m not talking morally correct, ethical or just, I’m talking just plain easier.   

I wonder where I would’ve fit in in the early 60‘s?  What category would I have fallen into?  Hard to say really.  Could I see myself in a steno pool?  Would I be meeting my husband at the door with a kiss and a cocktail?  Would I be the doting mother hosting a luncheon of the PTA?  Would I be meeting a lover in a hotel after hours?  Would I hang out in a club listening to disjointed artistic mumblings and raging against the system? 

I bet I would have tried all of them at some point.  I’m sure my family and friends would become concerned with my rebelliousness and indecisiveness.  They would expect me to make up my mind, to pick something, to settle down.  I’m sure someone would recommended me to a psychiatrists couch.  The Dr. would nod and scratch notes and I’m certain prescribe a hefty bottle of pills for my nerves and another bottle to help me sleep.   I would have drifted in a blissful state of sedation and delusion.   

In my medicated haze, I bet I would’ve have dreamt I was superwoman.