Sorry, I'm not trying to debate anything.

If it seems like I'm correcting people on some things, its not because its important to me to be "right" about something, but rather, I'm trying to clarify just what it is my OP is asking. It seems its been misunderstood, and what better way is there to clarify it than by addressing those misunderstandings?

The crux of the misunderstanding seems to be that people are reading some stereotypes into it. Examples include: People have told me not to worry about whether I'm normal, not to try to fit myself into an easily defined box, and that I shouldn't think I have to answer to anyone but myself. The thing is, I don't care whether I'm normal (and don't see where I've implied that I do), I don't believe I do or should fit inside an easily defined box (and don't see where I've implied otherwise,) and don't believe I ultimately must answer to anyone (actually, in point of fact, not even to myself) (and I don't see where I've implied otherwise).

I think the things people are saying are fine and interesting, but inasmuch as while saying them, people are sometimes directing advice towards me, and inasmuch as I assume that when directing advice towards me, they would prefer the advice to be based on accurate suppositions about me, I think its in everyone's interest to clear up the kinds of misunderstandings I've been highlighting.

But as I said in my original post, my point is actually not to seek advice, but rather, just to hear what people think about the topic. Advice is fine and welcome, as well. But when offered, I'll say something about how well it applies to my situation. An offerer of advice would value such information.

Thanks again for the replies!

mumei