Sometimes the best indicator of a small town is how big the big fish think they are in what can best be described as a pond. I have met some very interesting people in this small pond. Try as I may to stay out of the small town antics, I am social and found myself being social in many circles. It is funny though, not being from any of the original circles, I was always an outsider. I never truly could keep up with the “information” passed. Half because I never really knew who was being talked about and half because I didn’t really care. As the outsider, there were lots of perks. It is difficult to see the true picture while one is standing inside the frame. But, as an outsider I could stand back and stare. I did. And boy are there some funny things to laugh about.
First, there is this stigma in Fallon relevant to our initial status as Active Duty Military. “Ohhhhh, you are Military?” I always wanted to answer, “Of course… why else would we be in this shithole?” I never understood that really. A community that thrives by way of Military Families and transition yet, most of its locals want to be nasty and unwelcoming. The next round of questioning is the dance relative to what Rank and status you have in the Military, easily recognized as, “How much money do you make?” The simple facts are these; no one is in the Military making millions. We are all there serving the USA on some level. Yes we are compensated but, not by any means worth negotiating a Class status differentiation.
Next, the inquisitions are in who you know and what you know about them. It is a funny thought to have but, I guess if we are not talking about ourselves or other people , what in the world would be talking about? I have to admit, it is very easy to be dragged into. I mean, somethings are just funny and try as I may, I am very nosey. So, I am a guilty participant. And besides, there isn't much else to do in Fallon.
Everyone is a Sales person for some home-based Company. You know the kind; Tupperware, Jewelry, Foods, Scrapbooking, Purses, Make-up, Childrens Books, Card making, Home Décor, wall décor, Candles, Kitchen products, and I am certain I have left some out. And all these, I am referencing one Fallon lady hostess who sent me an invitation (handmade of course) to each. Some party’s even had individual stations set up with multiple showcases. Here is my take on this… we were a single income, Active-duty Military family. The last place I wanted to spend upwards of 50% inflation on products I didn’t even want or need was in someone’s living room. Talk about uncomfortable. This relationship eventually fizzled out and I stopped being invited. Thank goodness. However, it came at another price… small town you know. Which nicely brigs me to the Negative Nellies, who hold onto everything hateful from High School. Facebook is full of them and has become a personal forum for revenge via Status updates. Usually, I don’t know who the darts are being tossed at but, it is entertaining nonetheless. There are lots of perks to being an outsider. This is one.
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