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SHOUTOUTS

To Scaredy-Cat from Jade:

I used to be the HUGEST athletic coward. People always wanted me to play basketball or volleyball because I'm tall, and I refused. I had all kinds of excuses, but one of the hardest to overcome was that I REALLY didn't want to throw myself onto the ground and get hurt. So I didn't ever play anything, and when I did, I didn't throw myself (literally or figuratively) into the game, so it wasn't fun. Then I met someone who did throw himself into sports, games, whatever, and I realized how much fun he was having, and how much fun I could have if I did, too. I admit I could still be more physically active, but I really haven't broken any bones, and I enjoy things more. I just wish I had started earlier.

To Leslie from Jade:

There is nothing wrong with feeling torn between wanting a career and wanting a family. There is nothing wrong with wanting the marriage/family package at all. One of the great things about being a feminist is realizing that women have any number of options for their lives, and that marriage and motherhood are just as valuable as any other choice. When I tell people that marriage and family are very important goals for me, and that I'm planning to relocate for them, I have definitely seen the "Oh, what a shame/waste/quaint notion" look in their eyes. Don't fall for it. Do whatever you want, and be proud of whatever choice you make. It doesn't matter where you live, or what you do for a living. What matters is how you live, and whether you're happy doing it.

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