I’ll admit it. I’m a Geek.

I’ve always been a geek, but it took me most of my life to be able to accept that and embrace it. The world isn’t always kind to geeks. It’s easier to pretend to be “normal” than to get picked on for your interests. Especially if those interests aren’t what people consider “main stream.”

But when you pretend to be something you’re not, you lose a lot of yourself. No matter how hard you try, you never quite fit in. You have two faces – the one you present to the world so you feel like you can fit in, and the real you. And it’s exhausting to live like that. Even isolating. You feel like you’re the only one out there who’s a freak for liking Dr. Who. Or Video games. Or books. Even though mentally you know there are millions of other people out there who like the same things. Sadly, some people never find their tribe of people who like the same things and they push aside that geeky part of themselves, forever hiding it from public view.

I’m glad to say I’ve found people who accept me for who I am and what I love. But I’ll admit, I still have moments when I’m reluctant to speak up and proudly exclaim that I’m a geek because I don’t want to be judged or made to feel some how less than people with other hobbies (even in my own family). But those times are fewer now, and far between. So when Monica Valentinelli wrote a post calling all geeks, I immediately perked up. Here’s her proposal:

SPEAK OUT WITH YOUR GEEK OUT

Sometime during the week of Monday, September 12th to Friday, September 16th post about what geeky hobby you love. Then, tell us why we should try it, too. Leave your fears (and edition wars) at the door. Forget about your latest rant. Tap into that well of positive energy and share in the excitement of all things geek.

 

Let us invite those who would stereotype us to sit at our table and share our interests.

A way to be positive and excited about things I love? Count me in! But at the same time, it’s a little bit scary. I know all you guys are wonderful and supportive, but there are always those folks out there who mock and stereotype and judge.  And I hope that by speaking out, we can take back those things we love, whatever they are. From Monica’s site:

This isn’t just about gaming. This isn’t just about comics or movies or books. This is about taking a stance against negativity and feeling isolated for our interests — whether they be sports, games, music, crafts, whatever — and putting our energy toward being enthusiastic about what we love. This is about people who feel like they’re geeks because of their interest or vocation, and who will stand up and say that’s it is not cool to put them down.

So I figured this week would be the perfect time to introduce my Gaming series – which will combine two of my passions – writing and video games. I get so excited about both of these things, and I finally feel like I’ve found people I can share that excitement with!

So how about you? Are you a geek about anything? What gets you excited and interested?

(And if you’d like to sign up for Speak out with your Geek Out, you can visit Monica’s facebook page or the Speak Out website)