“When I first came back, they all noted, ‘You’re like o, living a bizarrely parallel lifestyle despite the barred environment.’”
I saw it as an indirect compliment, a nod to how carefree and Americanized my lifestyle and hobbies are, even when surrounded by conceptual and physical opposites. Truthfully, it’s a reflection of what interests me, who I am and what I present (online). I don’t think it requires much convincing for anyone who knows me personally. *wink wink
“That’s why we’re talking like no time has passed. I wouldn’t be hanging out with you if you were like the typical XYZs.”
Another sly jab, knowing I’m considered the levelheaded exception to those stereotypes.
(sigh) It can be hard to be myself 🙄