Reactions

I've been talking to friends for a long time about my planned desertion. It's been interesting to hear reactions.

I've gotten a pretty mixed response. Many think I'm being irresponsible, but I have a special appreciation for my friends who support my decision and understand that it's important to pursue my passion. Although one friend (who supported me) called the others idiots, I'll try to give them the benefit of the doubt and just say that they are very concerned - and I'm glad to have friends that care about me. Some seem to be upset because they're potentially affected, people like coworkers and women I go out with. I can't really blame them.

One coworker pointed out the other night something that I hadn't thought of: perhaps I'm having a midlife crisis. I read a bunch of articles about it and a wild career change is certainly a common symptom (thankfully, I don't have any of the other, more destructive ones). From the point of view of the "idiots" I can see how they think I'm making a crisis-induced decision. But from where I'm standing, I'm just living my dream. Also, knowing that the article I posted yesterday was written about 10 years ago suggests that it's not a rash decision in response to my graying hair.