Rewired

INCIDENT:
So today I learned to rewire a light fixture. Nice. Who knew that I would be learning to do electrical while pursuing a degree in psychology? Then I realized that this must be right. When all of your paths come together and it makes sense, then its a special moment. Seemingly divergent paths, which always made theoretical sense, find a point of intersection.

MORAL:
This is the first time that I consciously realized that not only does my background have practical applications in my current pursuits but I also have an opportunity to provide a different but relevant perspective. And in that light, everyone has a unique perspective as a result of life experiences. We should celebrate the beauty of these differences. It is in the differences that we define yourselves perhaps more then our similarities. For example, I have always considered myself an architect and when people ask me what I do, I pause... I don't know what to say. I identify as an architect first before a psychologist or even a scientist. Why wouldn't I? I've spent a lot of time in the architecture world. But I think the bigger factor is that I still feel like an outsider or rather an impostor in science. And since these days I find myself among more scientists than architects, I default to my difference but perhaps only cause I am not secure enough to do otherwise.

But when I am among other architects, they consider me the scientist. And while I should relish in the fact that I have sought an alternate path in architecture, I feel insulted not to still be considered an architect to other architects. Some people presume that I have chosen not to pursue a career in architecture simply based on my choice not to engage in traditional architectural practice. Let's be clear. First, this choice is not a standing decision about my future career pursuits. I do want to participate in the design process and I do want to get licensed. Second, alternative roles in architecture are just as important as traditional roles. We all have a common goal - to advance the art and science of the field of architecture. Finally, we all have the right to make the choice about what we think is the best way to accomplish our personal goals. And in exercising this right, we should respect the decision of others.

So what's the point of this rant? While rewiring the light fixture today, I realized that I do belong in science. I have something to contribute and that contribution is directly related to my background. While I feel insecure among scientists about my abilities and knowledge, I felt the same way when I first started out in architecture. In time, the abilities and knowledge will come. But in the meantime, I should feel proud to be both an architect and a psychologist. I am engaged in both fields, right?