I am a good girl. That’s what people call me. I grew up in church and am committed to my faith. I don’t think faith and church are the same thing though. I am not a regular church attender despite the fact that I am a member of one that I absolutely love. But God is important to me. I see Him working in my life. I have no problem getting out of my own way and letting Him take over. I feel a sense of peace when I think about the future. I am not worried about it where I’ll be or how I’ll be getting along at all. I know God is in control and that even if my future is full of hardships, I can turn to Him for comfort and peace. I’ve done it before. Even in the midst of huge trials, I knew that they were temporary. I knew that God was working on me. And I was willing to be teachable.
One thing that makes me a good girl that many people comment on is my cussing and drinking. Or the lack thereof. I do cuss a little…but not even every day. I do have a drink on occasion, but neither of these things is necessary for me. I didn’t grow up cussing so for a naughty word to come out of my mouth, it has to be thought about before hand. Most of the time. I tend to say Jeez Louise or Good Cow or Oh My instead. They come much more naturally. That being said, I don’t care one bit if someone else cusses. I am not offended at all. Living in another country really sealed the deal that words were words for me. Words that might offend a Turk didn’t affect my sensibilities at all, and I heard so many Turks use English cuss words just because they knew I spoke English that it was almost amusing. I didn’t like for people to use foul language in front of my kids. I’m still not a fan of that, but I get that it might happen. That’s ok. They are getting older and will decide for themselves what words will and will not be a part of their vocabulary.
Both Chicory Root and Sweet Tea made the comment at one point that they had ruined me because I said a cuss word or two here and there. They were worried that their richer vocabulary might have affected mine. That wasn’t the case. I am careful with my audience. Back when I had my first blog, I wouldn’t have ever written a cuss word in a post. I had a pretty good following from my church and missions organization so I made sure I didn’t offend with language. When I’m with my parents, siblings, and kids, I would never use a cuss word in conversation. We didn’t do it growing up and I have no need to start now. Now that I write here, I will occasionally use words that I wouldn’t have dreamed of saying just 5 years ago on this blog and in real life with people I know won’t be offended. I guess I’m evolving in the language department.
And the whole drinking thing. I like some drinks, but I don’t have to have anything. I enjoy a margarita every now and then. I am a fan of jello shots. I like a vodka, cranberry and sprite spritzer every once in a while as well. I might have a drink once a week. Maybe. I have had too much to drink twice in my life, and after the last time, I vowed that it would never happen again. I don’t enjoy alcohol nearly enough to be a drunk. Anyone can drink me under the table and I am ok with that.
I do have other vices. Diet Coke. I’m addicted. I am somewhat stubborn. I like things done a certain way. I tend to be a rule follower. And I spend way too much time on social media. (Well…other than during working hours. The kindergarteners don’t really leave time for that during the day!) I have failed miserably in my resolution to take my dog for daily walks. ( I blame the weather. I stay cold even in the house, so the thought of going out on these really cold days doesn’t appeal to me. This week the highs are going to be in the 70s and the lows in the 60s so maybe I’ll kick it back into gear.) And cheese. (Despite the fact that I am allergic to cow’s milk, I eat cheese and then have tummy aches. I’m awesome like that.)
So I guess I’m a good girl. I’ll take it.
Edited…And in no way am I defining the word good. It’s just what people call me. I have no problems with drinking, cussing, or the like. I do have issues with people who are dishonest and untrustworthy. Integrity is a huge thing for me.
OH…and for the record, bad girls are kinda hot!
Midlife Natalie 