What I Want to Be When I Grow Up

Some things are inevitable.

At some point, in every child's life, someone will ask them what they want to be when they grow up.

The answers run the gamut from classic to obscure, from humble to ambitious. Kids say things like, "A fireman!" or "An astronaut!" I remember my sister once proclaiming that she dreamed of being a school bus driver. At least four kids in my kindergarten  class wanted to be President of the United States.

My first and greatest aspiration?

I wanted to be "a lady who went to the park and gave away free lollipops."

I'm twenty-seven years old now. I've revised my career dreams a few times over the years: equine veterinarian, actor, novelist, teacher... But, in a way, I miss the sweet, selfless simplicity (did I mention I also wanted to be the President of Alliteration?) of my very first job choice.

Sadly, I live in an age where a strange woman handing out free candy at a playground might be met with at least a moderate level of suspicion and hostility on the part of both kids and parents. I can only imagine that my offerings would usually be met with a kick in the shin and screams of, "No, don't touch me! No bad touch!"

I have, however, made a small pledge to myself.

From now on, I'm going to keep a few lollipops in my purse. I don't plan on spending any extra time around playgrounds, but if, from time to time, a friend or a coworker looks like they could use something sugary on a stick, I'll be ready!