I just want to get something off my chest.
If you could stick with me for five minutes or less, I want to talk about hipsterness. Mine in particular.
To start with, I have developed a love for farm grown produce, smoked meats, freshly baked donuts, and artisanal rootbeer through a life of enjoying good home cooked meals and because I have a taste for delicious, uncomplicated food.
I listen to weird rock, fringy pop, classical, folk, and 50's blues music because I love passionate art and have a hunger to discover new things at an insatiable pace. I love my music because music doesn't discriminate based on race or because of what clothes you wear or your social status.
Which brings me to my next point. I dress like this because I grew up shopping in thrift stores and wearing hand me downs. I also just happen to love scarves, coincidentally. I'll probably get some tattoos at some point, but until then I'll just have to be jealous. I can't grow a full beard but I would if I could. It makes you look like a viking and I think that's pretty bad ass.
I love fountain pens and old fashioned typewriters because I read a lot of classic literature and I have a deep appreciation for well made objects. Craftsmanship used to make the world go round and it's really rewarding when you can take pride in your work.
I use twitter and tumblr and have a website because I enjoy being connected to a larger planet, I feel like it gives me perspective. But I also strive to be present. If you come over for some authentically prepared international cuisine I won't be on my tablet unless I'm sharing music or poetry with you.
Yes, I write poetry and short stories. Story telling is our most powerful form of communication and allows up us to transcend the bullshit and connect on a deeper, more personal level. It also helps me work through difficult stuff on my own, and provides me with free entertainment.
And since I've brought up entertainment, since when is spending time outside something to be mocked? We live on an incredible planet which very often surpasses even the setting in the best fantasy movies. Bonfires, hikes, and parks are the sorts of things mankind was meant to spend their life enjoying. So get off your hypothetical high horse and get on a real one for once.
I don't always want to work 8-5 and make barely enough money to give back to the federal government. Some day, I want to work on my terms, and do something I love. Life isn't about money.
It's about truly experiencing this whole thing and sharing it with the people you love.
Speaking of which, I love humans. Women's rights, gay rights, starving children, clean water, bring it on. Don't be afraid to talk about free the nipple or homelessness or religion because you're repressed or confused. Respect people for who they are, try to give something of yourself and don't expect anything back. Listen intently to people's stories. You might just learn something. Seek discomfort. Don't be afraid to talk to someone just because they are wearing a turban or have lots of peircings.
I guess my whole point is, be yourself. I have tried to do this my whole life, and it just so happens that right now, many of my lifestyle choices have come in to style. Which is great for me because everything I've always had an affinity for is freely available in a bunch of stores which suits me perfectly, thank you.
If you only take one thing away from this little rant let it be this.
Don't let other people's opinions dictate anything about you. Listen to the music you like, dress how you want, eat food that tastes good and stop worrying about what it all means or how someone might label you.
If you have any questions or feedback, let me know.
Peace,
Gabriel
P.S.
Bacon is delicious, so shut up.
End.
