RobArt Penguin

I dread being asked about my work, because I am embarrassed by my work history. Of course, my shame lies around the societal idea about work life, especially men, that we have a steady job and a spotless work history. After college I was Food Scientist, then after law school, a Corporate lawyer, then I dropped out, later taking menial jobs until I got back on my feet. Eventually I retooled again to get into IT, where I ended up a systems manager. Then I was a stay-at-home Dad, which was good for them but reminded me of my father who dropped out of society when he was 38. He sunk his sorrows in alcohol and complained about his failed work life. So, talking about work brings up a ton of baggage. While I raised the kids, I took care of aging parents and an aging aunt. I did art shows and wrote two books. I have much to be proud of, but when I am at a social gathering I feel like a second class citizen because the people around me have jobs with income, and I don’t. I know I don’t have to see this way, but it’s hard to shake societal expectations.