I Used to Waffle

Summary

The author reflects on personal growth from indecisiveness to confident decision-making, inspired by an empathy prompt, and acknowledges the importance of clear 'Yes' and 'No' responses in shaping their world.

Abstract

The article "I Used to Waffle" delves into the author's journey from a state of indecision, characterized by vacillating between "yes" and "maybe, no I can't?" to a place of assertiveness and clarity in their decisions. This transformation is metaphorically described as learning to drive, symbolizing the author's newfound ability to navigate life's highways with determination. The author now embraces the power of their choices, seeing the tangible impact of their 'Yes' and 'No' on the world around them, including the tribes they gather and the paths they form. Influenced by the Age of Empathy prompt, the author celebrates the joy and challenges of parenting, which further underscores the significance of decisive action. The world, likened to a toddler in its uncertainty, is in a state of flux, with empires falling and the need for recreation evident. The author concludes by acknowledging the responsibility they hold in leading their world with their decisions, encouraged by the support of fellow writers and the fun they had in engaging with the prompt.

Opinions

The author previously struggled with making decisions, often hesitating or changing their mind.
Learning to drive serves as a metaphor for gaining control and confidence in decision-making.
The author believes that their decisions actively shape their reality, influencing their environment and the people around them.
Parenting has taught the author the value of clear decisions, as children respond decisively to 'Yes' and 'No'.
The author perceives the current state of the world as uncertain and in need of clear guidance and recreation.
The act of writing about the prompt was not only fun for the author but also insightful, highlighting the importance of empathy in understanding personal growth.
The author expresses gratitude towards those who provided the prompt and tags other writers, suggesting a collaborative and supportive community.

AoE Prompt #1 — Are You a “Yes” or “No” Person?

I used to waffle a lot zigzag between yes and “erm, maybe, no I can’t?”

sometimes I feel the world in me that world isn’t really what I want

it spins and I drag my feet trying to hang on

then I learned to drive time to catch up!

my huge butt zooms across highways yes or no I just need to show

now I get to see the streets I’m forming tribes I’m gathering where the sun keeps moving across time zones

my kids show me No! Wins the show! Yes! To joy like no tomorrow!

I honor my internal Yes, No my living room dances are now proudly shown!

when in doubt I grow still to be sure

but now our world is unsure where to go she keeps waffling screaming like a toddler her brain and heart crumbling and re-forming

too many kids kicking away empires that are no longer fun to play

it’s time to recreate!

my world waits for my Yes and No I need to lead and run the show

I pull out my dusty pillow running my fingers across embroidered dreams perhaps my world wants to see them glow!

Thank you Aimée Gramblin, Shanna Loga, and Melissa Bee for your Age of Empathy prompt! I had so much fun writing about it!

Here are the prompt guidelines:

I Used to Waffle

AoE Prompt #1 — Are You a “Yes” or “No” Person?

Are You a “Yes” or “No” Person?

Launch of AOE’s first writers prompt

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