Compromise.

Ever since coming to California, the test for each of us has been to stay true to who we are and not allow compromise to kick in. There is such a seducing spirit in the area of LA that can draw anyone in and make you aimless. You come with a dream and lose sight because of "lifestyle." I wonder how many are lost..........

I literally feel out of touch with the rest of the world in this "South Bay Bubble" and not even care quite honestly. People just do their own thing. That's not me; however, and not where I come from. I make it my business to stay informed and keep my connections flowing. I care about what's happening in the world.

I brought the kids west almost a year ago and this place feels as it did then; it's just a place to live, train and play. It is not a place that feels settled, but a space people are just passing through. The idea of home and family feels very distant even though ours is mostly together because of this "bubble."

Most homes in this bubble, even the smallest and outdated, are selling for $400K plus. Everyone knows it's crazy but all seem to participate. You get the least possible for a ton of money. Investors, foreigners, the famous, and wealthy families seem to be the few that can afford to call the area "home."

Yes, there's surface beauty but also a feeling of survival, as if someone is out to get you at any given time. Whether a traffic ticket, an untrustworthy "friend", or someone in your social circle, lying to your face is common place. I learned the hard way a few months back......... in a confrontation with a native Californian. This past year has been about more life lessons.

We continue to be ourselves from back East, without compromise, and remain very different from the crowd. Being bi-coastal may be closer than I think. 
As hard as I have to work, we will remain "untouched"................

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