Chocolate or Cheese!

Happy Valentine’s Day! This week I posted a question of preference for my FaceBook followers – “Chocolate or Cheese?” As suspected, the majority chose chocolate. There were a few of us who dissented to the savory side of cheese. However, my favorite reply was the outside-of-the-box reply of “Neither. Wine, please!” It wasn’t my favorite because of the wine, though I do enjoy a nice glass of wine – especially when paired with chocolate or cheese. What I love is witnessing when someone is willing, able, and confident enough to claim their own story.

Now, claiming wine over cheese and chocolate may seem like a reach within the concept of diverse thinking, but stick with me here. As someone who purposefully surrounds herself with diverse thinkers AND who simultaneously fights the military-brat compliance of coloring inside of the lines, my inside thoughts often feel like a lesson in conflict resolution. Perhaps that is where the skill of measuring both sides was honed? Toeing the line and also questioning its validity is the hallmark of my own childhood. The one time I did express my opposing view as a child, I was promptly put back in my box. It had more impact at that stage of my development than I ever realized. I didn’t take kindly to being quashed but somewhere along the line, I learned that it was a way of survival. I’ve spent the better part of my adult life unpacking that and growing a new set of wings. It is likely why I love to help people unbox their core values and thoughts.

ADHD brains often thrive where creative design exists. They make connections others may not see. They live comfortably in the novelty; the unknown territory is often far more energizing. For me, the answer of “wine” solves the problem of choosing either chocolate or cheese. Why not have both? Why choose only one? Why not offer a 3rd tine in that proverbial fork (in the road)? What may seem interesting or obvious to some if not so to others. Understanding your true self can lead to greater confidence in divergent thinking, sharing of new ideas, and modeling of resilience. When one has the courage to share those ideas, they might be surprised by the number of others who share those views. Sharing regardless of that outcome is some of the most fantastic human development I see.

Mr. Bigstuff has said before that he simply wants someone who will “embrace his weird”. While we may not always see eye to eye, I absolutely embrace his courage to live in his moments. I want all of these things for everyone. Chocolate, wine, and cheese, please! All other responses encouraged as well. #happyvalentinesday