To smart girls

Admittedly, I’ve never been big on math or science. Story problems, are you kidding me? A root canal sounds more enjoyable.  

This was as close as I ever got to being a mathematical genius. At least it offered a moment in time wherein I did not experience a nervous tick at the very thought of logical derivations.

But life has a funny way of making you do that which you swore you’d never do. For me, it came in the form of technical writing. Even then, I didn’t choose the occupation. Rather, I took a job as an Executive Assistant for the CEO of a software company that designed crime scene diagramming software. Yes, it was as awesome as it sounds.

Before long, word got around I could edit, editing turned into writing.

Since then I’ve accepted various technical writing assignments as a freelancer.

What I love most about these particular gigs is hanging with the likes of programmers and engineers. Get them talking about something they love—something more than likely only they will understand—and their eyes grow wide, their hands flail about, and their volume rises a few decibels.

You know what I mean? They say.

The mind boggles, I reply.

In reality, I haven’t a clue what they’re talking about, but I’m sure it is completely amazing.

My latest foray into the scientific realm has been helping my dad with his solar business. There is an unfortunate amount of math involved in solar design and installation. Yet it completely fascinates me. Seems I’m of the minority, a lady, being intrigued by the goings on of solar power. It is, by and large, a man’s world.

At a home show a couple weekends ago, however, I had cause for hope. A young blonde sauntered in to where my dad was preparing to give a presentation. She sat to the back, sure, but she was there. A-ha! I thought. Us girls are on our way . . .

Alas, the minute the presentation started, she packed up her bag and went on her away. Apparently, she only needed a resting spot to check her text messages. Pity.

Still, I hold out hope. I hold out hope for the day when more girls realize you’ll be remembered far longer for your mind, than your twerking abilities; that you can be slightly nerdy and sexy too; that you may not have the aptitude for math and science, but you should always give it your best try . . .