Growing up in a rigid household, I often found myself labeled a “late bloomer.” My upbringing was deeply rooted in a conservative faith that promoted a very specific lifestyle, which many would deem unconventional. I skipped the nail polish, organized sports, and Friday night outings that my peers enjoyed. While others relished Beanie-Weenies, Saturday morning cartoons, and video games, my childhood was a distinctly different experience. My parents were undoubtedly strict.
Before vegetarianism became a trendy lifestyle choice, I was already navigating a meat-free existence, dining on quirky substitutes like “Big Franks” and “Stripples.” My restaurant orders often consisted of hamburgers without the meat. It wasn’t until my twenties that I finally tasted a real hot dog and discovered the joy of pepperoni. It turns out, unclean meat can be quite delicious.
In my sheltered environment, drinking, swearing, and jewelry were virtually non-existent. I never had pierced ears, and our family life was marked by simplicity. With limited television and little access to movies, I often felt out of the loop regarding pop culture references from before 2000. Iconic films like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off or Sixteen Candles remained foreign to me. My parents were selective about what I watched and read, believing that every influence shapes our thoughts and emotions. While I respect their philosophy, I still found it frustrating to miss out on shows like The Smurfs.
When I feel the urge to express frustration while preparing dinner for my family, I recall that I’ve never heard my mother use profanity. This high standard can be daunting, and I often struggle with my own guilt, yet it reassures me that it’s possible to parent without losing control. My parents exemplified healthy relationships and parenting styles, and only in hindsight did I recognize how fortunate I was to grow up in a happy and secure environment. Despite their conservativeness, they granted me the freedom to make my own decisions.
As I matured, I began to understand the uniqueness of my upbringing, but it didn’t bother me because I was genuinely content. I developed the confidence to explore the natural world around me, venturing into the woods with nothing but my imagination and our loyal German shepherd. By the age of seven, I was already canoeing solo on the lake, climbing trees, and racing through the forest on my bike. My parents took a step back, allowing me the space to explore, learn from my mistakes, and face the consequences of my actions. This sheltered existence helped me cultivate a strong inner resilience, one that I carry into adulthood. My viewpoints were free from the influence of popular opinions, as I was blissfully unaware of societal trends.
When I entered the dating scene, my experiences were anything but conventional. Even when I considered marrying someone my parents disapproved of, they respected my autonomy. Ultimately, I did not go through with that marriage, and I appreciated their quiet support, which allowed me to navigate my own path. They understood that effective parenting doesn’t stem from control; rather, it’s about providing thoughtful guidance. Trying to control someone usually leads to rebellion. Their discipline equipped me with the tools necessary for making sound decisions.
As a typical late bloomer, I didn’t master makeup application until adulthood, but I eventually did learn. My aim is to preserve my children’s innocence and shield their childhood from unnecessary pressures. There’s no need to rush the process—except maybe for the eyebrow plucking; that should be expedited.
Though my views diverge from my parents in some areas now that I have my own children, I possess the ability to tune out external influences and follow what feels right in my heart. This instinct has been honed over years of listening to that quiet inner voice. Ultimately, my upbringing taught me that being different is not the worst fate one could endure.
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In summary, my strict upbringing, while unconventional, provided me with a unique sense of freedom that shaped my identity. It taught me the importance of independence, resilience, and the ability to follow my instincts, ultimately allowing me to embrace my individuality.