Ask Baba Yaga: How Can I Stop Caring So Much About What Other People Think?

Baba Yaga by absolutejackass

First of all: apologies for the language below, but I think most people will appreciate the answer, even if the question feels a little... strong. Actually, it was difficult to find another way to say the same with quite as much emphasis for the post title, so I ended up rephrasing altogether, though I haven't communicated the depth of anguish the petitioner is clearly feeling about this subject.

But there's another reason I rephrased, other than for family friendly titles. Though most people may not be in a relationship situation as is mentioned here, it's not unusual to find yourself being disapproved of by one group or another, at some point in your life, and having it bother you. And Baba Yaga has a refreshingly different take on how to deal with it.

Here's today's question and answer (via poet and oracle Taisia Kitaiskaia* of The Hairpin):

(Originally posted at The Hairpin HERE)

It might not be a complete answer, in my mind, but it's a solid - and positive - start.

What do you think of Baba Yaga's advice?

Want to ask Baba Yaga a question of your own?

You can!

There's now an email address where you can send your questions

directly to Baba Yaga herself.

AskBabaYaga AT gmail DOT com

To encourage Baba Yaga to continue imparting her no-bones-about-it wisdom (ok, there may be some gristle in there... bones too), I suggest we not to leave her box empty... 

Thank you Baba Yaga (& Taisia).

* Taisia Kitaiskaia is a poet, writer, and Michener Center for Writers fellow. Born in Russia and raised in America, she's had her poems and translations published in Narrative Magazine, Poetry International, and others.