A Private Practice with a White Picket Fence

Growing up, we kids were taught to be independent. "Do well in school, study hard, get a good job! You must be able to take care of yourself. Don't depend on others. When we're gone, you have to stand on your own two feet!"

So that is what Sister and I have been trying to do. We did really well in school. We went to great colleges. We're doing well in the medical field. (Ok I still have 1000 years left to go, but she is an Attending). We're loving life and enjoying our independence as best as we can.

I say as best as we can because a few years ago, our parents (mom) turned the tables. Suddenly we were told to get married. You heard me. "Find a husband to take care of you, give us grandkids, once you get married we can relax."

I was appalled, but I haven't felt it as much as Sister. The second she graduated medical school, mom was on her ass. "Are you dating anyone?" Dad was already checking online, arranged-marriage websites. It didn't end. It still hasn't. It is officially harassment.

Dad has stepped back. I'm sure only superficially to make mom look like the bad guy... and because we have reamed him out... and he freaks out when women gang up on him.

Now they're slowly but surely starting on me. They're not quite sure how to go about it though. I'm a bit of a firecracker when they try to dictate my life. I do whatever will keep me in control... and allow me to spend their money.

Not only do I tend to do what my parents want, I also tend to do what I want. The desires are often polar opposites, but I manage to get both done.

I'm not quite stuck, but I know I'm miserable right now. I love medicine, but I hate medical school. I really like RedSox, but I fear missing out on something better... someone better...

I don't know if I can do it. I don't know if I'll be able to have both. Somebody is going to be disappointed, and I'm pretty that person will be I.