Fly Your Freak Flag!!

“I don't judge others. I say if you feel good with what you're doing, let your freak flag fly.”

-Sarah Jessica Parker

This post may come across as arrogant, but it's not. The feeling of self-love is one that has changed from its original positive connotation of confidence to the negative connotation of vanity... and that's just not right. There are days when we feel less-than-great about ourselves and mentally attack our own reflections. It's difficult, as a woman, to not want to compare one's self to today's sex symbols; to feel inadequate. It can be tough to face a blemish in the mirror or five extra pounds on the scale. And it can be downright devastating to have someone you care for choose someone more beautiful than you in the battle for love. I'm sure it has been this way from the dawn of time... but these days it is far worse. People are scrambling to make themselves more mainstream or desirable to others.

It is these times when you need to stray away from conformity and embrace your flaws! Find the things about you that are unique that you do like and highlight them. Surface those hidden talents, interests, and ideas that you're typically to embarrassed to share. Find your inner freak and FLY YOUR FREAK FLAG HIGH!! Don't worry about making a fool of yourself or being the odd one out- be proud about the things that make you... well, YOU! For example, I love to perform. In high school, I was able to get away with it, but once I left the comfort of my home town and entered college, I was terrified of being labeled as a "drama nerd" and the stereotypes that come along with it. I stopped doing shows and singing in public or admitting to my past hobbies, for fear of being judged. But NO MORE!

As I've grown older, I've come to realize that performing arts are just a part of who I am; something I succeed at, and that makes me happy. I refuse to hide in the shadow of normality any longer, and am opening up about my inner freak, who loves to dress up and sing and pretend to be somebody else for an hour. I love that about myself. What about you?? What's one thing you are a bit ashamed to share that actually is contributing to your individuality?? When you accept these things as gifts, rather than burdens, you'll be surprised to learn what else you've been hiding and what other people find fascinating about you! Today's lesson: Fly your freak flag and fly it high!

 Hello Dolly!

Playing the lead role as a boy in The Phantom Tollbooth- haha!

The epitome of P! I was an Aretha Franklin-esque Diva.

One of my first paid singing gigs at The Depot in St. Paul.

I am a closet drama nerd... How about you?? I'd love to meet your inner freak!

Keep on flyin' high,

P!