Several years ago when I was focused on education reform issues, one of my colleagues mentioned that she had become the "school choice mom."
Almost every meeting, discussion, activity became focused on creating education options for children.
These days, I have become so focused on North Korean refugee issues that some people don't realize that I had a career and many other interests before this.
Yesterday I was reminded of this when I met a friend who is not involved in North Korean issues--and apparently isn't interested either! So we had a funny and delightful conversation about a number of things that had nothing to do with North Korea. I told stories I hadn't thought about in years. I hope the usual people who misread things won't think this means I don't enjoy my activities, because I absolutely do.
But this is also why I disagree with some of my fellow activists who complain about people who are not interested in our particular cause. It is also good for people to have the freedom not to get involved. When activists want to take a break, I encourage them to do so with so much enthusiasm they may wonder if I am opposed to their work.
Plus, it is good to have a work-life balance.
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