The power of the passive protagonist

Rarely do you see a passive character successful in a story. Unless, they change their trajectory, conquering some sort of obstacle with the rising tension of the scenes. On the other hand, aggressive and intense roles are more memorable to the audience, more widely accepted, more exciting. In a way as a society, we desire and feed off of that aggression and dominating personalities. It is so easy to do so, we adapt we become comfortable, we accept, we expect the same thing every time.

In my own life I have many forms of support from family and friends, They all try to help in their own right sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. I am realizing now at the age of 42 I need to be very clear about what I need, when I need support. I need to use assertive communication and draw boundaries when it is appropriate. Protect my health and know when to say no. I am recognizing I have become all too comfortable being the passive protagonist in my very own narrative. No one is at fault, no one person is to blame. I accept responsibility for this personality I have created. It is time to move forward the right way, in a healthy way, to express myself, communicate efffectively, and lead my life from the front rather than observing from the passenger seat.

My best friend, Paige, I met in August 2002 as freshmen at Syracuse University nearly 25 years ago. While Paige has her own flaws, to me she has always been there for me in my adult life, as the best form of support I could ask for. She once referred to me as a golden retriever puppy, but more noteworthy how she referred to me as a chameleon. A chameleon adapts to their environment. Runs. Survives. This is similar to how I have chosen to cope with life over the years. To any of my family and friends reading, while I am not at my best now…expect some changes in how I communicate. Do not be surprised if I say no to any social engagements, or limit contact. In order to move forward in my story, I must clearly and assertively speak, draw boundaries and more deeply understand what I want and need to be a better version of myself. The passive protagonist in this story is changing her colors.