One more post on transitions and the memories that mark them:

My chicken legs story marked my emergence into pre-adolescence. Today I have another story, set firmly in my adolescence and… forgive me, but yes, my legs are involved.

Two very cool, older boys at my high school approached me while I was alone at my locker after school hours. I was in my gym suit. One of them said “I bet you sing real good.” I was so excited he was even speaking to me I forgave the grammatical error and all a-flutter I asked, “Who me? Why?” He leaned in a little closer, “Because you’ve got legs like a canary.”

Really. Since then, I have listened to others tell stories about their high school experiences and this little joke made at my expense is pretty small potatoes. It is nothing. I have friends who had far more serious and harrowing experiences than this. I too had other, more serious experiences, but this one stood out in my mind. For years. 

And here is my point. I gave that little joke so much power. I let it take over my psyche (and my wardrobe choices) in so many ways. I was in my mid-twenties before I recognized I really did have nice legs. Skinny, yes, but still nice.

My final point here has been said many times by others far more profound than me and it deserves repeating; It’s not what is said to you, or what has happened to you, it’s the power you give it.  

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog.  Your comments, questions, ideas and suggestions are always welcome.  You can comment here, or choose between Facebook, Twitter, or the contact button.  

Anne Milne is an every Sunday blogger.  I keep it short and to the point.  Topics are as wide ranging as a straight but not narrow path.