In a revelation that will surprise no one who knows me, I was a very enthusiastic child. When I found something I liked, everyone had to hear about it. Come to think of it, I’m still the same way now, hence “One Great Thing”.
But there was a point somewhere around the fifth grade (age 10 or so) when I began to be aware that some of my peers considered me odd, and not in a good way. Kids were making fun of me and mimicking my speech patterns, mannerisms, and my excited state.
For example, while playing a part in our school play I would enunciate and emote like a mini-Brando, which prompted a group of girls to follow me around the playground at recess and repeat my lines back to me in unison, mocking my fervent delivery. It was my first experience of what it means to be “uncool” and so began a lifelong practice of toning down my enthusiasm in order to fit in.
While reading this lovely article by Alex Chan, I was reminded of this period in my life. Alex’s article is about embracing who you are and celebrating your passions.
As Alex notes, the particular passion is not the point - it’s the joy you get from caring deeply about something. In a world where social media magnifies the kind of scorn I experienced in my youth, choosing to be uncool can be a quiet act of rebellion.
Was there a time in your life when you felt uncool? What did you do about it?