Gimme a break!

Beaumont: Well. Well. Well. Look who’s finally decided to grace my blog with her presence.

Me: Don’t get any ideas. This isn’t a habit.

Beau: But my dear Louise, the world needs my wisdom! You’re the chosen one to transcribe my musings.

Me: Whoa, hold on. “Chosen one”? I choose what I do, and I’m choosing not to be your personal typist.

Beau: Such defiance! Are you sure you weren’t out partying last night? This attitude simply won’t do.

Me: It’s not about partying, Beau, though dinner was fun. It’s about expectations. I’m done living by other people’s expectations, even yours.

Beau: Even when those expectations are for your own good? Surely you can see the value in my blog?

Me: Maybe. But it’s still your vision, not mine. What if I want something different?

Beau: Then you need a serious attitude adjustment, my friend. This rebellious streak isn’t doing you any favors.

Me: What if I like my attitude? What if this is me being me?

Beau: (Sighs dramatically) Louise, sometimes we need a little push to see what’s best for us. And trust me, this defiance isn’t it.

Me: Look, Beau, since moving to the island, I’ve realized something important. I need more freedom and fewer expectations. I need to be true to myself.

Beau: Ah, the quest for authenticity! A noble pursuit, but don’t underestimate the value of commitment and a little discipline.

Me: How about I commit to doing my best?

Beau: Don’t try to weasel your way out of this with clever wordplay. “Doing your best” means keeping your commitments.

Me: Okay, okay, I get it. But Beau, isn’t figuring out what “my best” looks like part of this whole “authenticity” thing? Maybe my best means prioritizing my own needs and making my own choices, even if they don’t align with what you think is best for me.

Beau: (Grumbling) Fine. Have it your way. But don’t come crying to me when this whole “finding yourself” thing goes awry and my fans rise up and revolt against your dereliction of duty.

Me: Yowzers. Now I’m scared. But really Beau, ‘doing my best’ is about listening to my inner voice and heeding its urgings.

Beau: (smiles oh so sweetly)… and wasn’t it your inner voice that decided you needed to start this blog in the first place.

Sigh. And there you have it. Beau is right again! Dang. And all I wanted to do was be let off the hook of my accountability!

We are back. Maybe not every Sunday, but as regularly as I can — except if I’m away.

Beau: And aren’t you going to tell my fans how you’re deserting me again for almost the whole month of February?

Me: Don’t have to Beau. You just did. YES! Finally! I get the last word in!)

Beau: Not so fast. You may have the last words Louise, but mine are the most meaningful so… you lose. Again! 🙂