People don't like real

This isn't new information, I know.  Most people like to hear what they want to hear.  They want you to repeat the lies they tell themselves.  They want that sugar coating, and they will accept nothing less.  And, not just for their own lives.  Most people want you to lie about you for them too.  

Don't make them uncomfortable with your struggles.

Don't make them feign compassion for the obstacles you're facing.

Don't humanize yourself for someone who wants to make you a stone.

These are the people who go on and on and on and on and on about how great their marriage is...on Facebook.  But text you three times a week about what a jerk he is.

They are the ones who can't stop telling you about all the unbelievable accomplishments their children couldn't have actually completed because you know they're really just average little kids who pick their noses and trip over their own feet.

The people who buy, buy, buy knowing they can't really afford, afford, afford.

I disappoint these people.  I'm simply not that good of an actress.  

Why does my Facebook profile pic rarely show the region north of my neck?  Because I'm no fan of that area and I refuse to photoshop a bright smile or smaller bags under my eyes.

Why do I joke about my ornery children in 3 out of 5 status updates?  Because my girls aren't perfect.  They do some impressive things, but there is definitely some stupidity mixed in there too.

Why do I blog about sadness or anger or humiliation?  Because I am sad and angry and humiliated.  I tell the truth.  It ain't pretty sometimes, sure; but honesty is always my first language.  If I logged on and wrote an essay about the joys of divorce or the ease of single parenting, I'd have to chew my own tongue off first.  And, frankly, I don't need the calories.

This is me.  Sometimes, I'm not as strong as everyone believes I am.  Sometimes, a feeling sneaks in before I have a chance to stomp it back down.  And, every once in awhile, I fall on my behind.  If those things never happen to you, congratulations!  Make sure you Facebook/twitter/blog/Instagram/snapchat all about your perfection.  Meanwhile, I'll be over here...not highlighting lies.  Feel free to dislike me for my reality because, I assure you, I'm no fan of your imagination.