Whenever my mom sees something like this, she’s quick to point out that she identifies more with the beatnik culture than the hippie movement. But let’s be real—our family has always danced to the beat of its own drum. My childhood was spent roaming freely, often barefoot, in places like a quaint coastal town, while my family embarked on a quest for self-discovery and adventure that took us across the country. I relished in the fact that by the time I turned 13, we had relocated 13 times—a testament to our nomadic lifestyle.
We were authentic hippies—not the trendy ones of the ‘90s with their faux peace signs and mass-produced tie-dye shirts. Our diet consisted of tofu and soy milk long before they became mainstream; we were the ones scouring a tiny health food store to find them. Here’s how you can tell if you were raised by true flower children:
- The day John Lennon passed away felt like a family tragedy. Your parents cried openly as you all gathered around the old black-and-white television to watch the news. For your family, losing John (as you affectionately called him) felt like losing a beloved relative—his music had been part of your lullabies since before you were born.
- You were practicing a “clean diet” long before it was a popular concept. Sugary cereals were a definite no-go in your house. At a friend’s place, you felt both excitement and guilt when offered something like Lucky Charms, especially as you watched the milk turn a vibrant pink.
- You felt connected to Dr. Bronner’s soap, chanting “All one! All one!” as your mom lathered your hair with the minty bubbles during bath time.
- Characters like Alex P. Keaton left you puzzled. You couldn’t understand how someone so charming could lean Republican, and you secretly fantasized about what chaos would ensue if you ended up marrying him.
- Your mom’s well-loved copy of Our Bodies, Ourselves was your go-to reference for all things sex-related. While your parents had opened up the conversation early, this book introduced you to topics like orgasms, birth control, and more while you were still quite young.
- You had to suppress your admiration for pop icons like Madonna, who represented everything your family stood against. When you first heard of Richard Marx, you genuinely wondered if he was related to Karl and if he shared similar philosophies.
- Snack time at home was a bowl of sunflower seeds, not chips or cookies. The ultimate treat was a carob-covered rice cake, which you savored like it was a gourmet dessert.
- Your mom was your confidante about your teenage romantic escapades, knowing all the details, thanks to the open discussions you had growing up (refer back to No. 5).
- National holidays made you uneasy. You often questioned the appropriateness of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, given your early education on topics like Vietnam and social injustices.
- You inadvertently spoiled the fun for kids on the bus by revealing the truth about Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy. Your parents had been honest with you, forgetting that not everyone was on the same page.
- You tucked a copy of Spiritual Midwifery in your math book and read it during class, dreaming of early graduation to head to a commune with your boyfriend for a midwifery experience.
- When people brought up “granola” as a euphemism for hippies, you were baffled—granola was just a breakfast option, right?
- In your 20s, therapy sessions revolved around boundary issues you developed (thanks, Mom!).
- Parenthood came naturally to you. If your baby resisted the crib, you instinctively brought them into bed with you, just like you were raised. The challenge? Convincing your own parents about the importance of nap schedules.
- You weren’t shocked when your firstborn addressed you and your partner by your first names. But when your second child sweetly said “Mommy” and “Daddy,” your heart swelled with joy.
Like many, my childhood was a beautiful mix of chaos and love. While I sometimes wished for a more conventional upbringing, the lessons of resilience and the importance of questioning norms have shaped who I am today. Now as a parent, I adopt a more traditional lifestyle but still hold onto my roots, believing in love, creativity, and the power of community.
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Summary
Growing up with free-spirited parents means embracing a unique lifestyle filled with unconventional lessons, open dialogues about life, and a deep appreciation for love and creativity over material possessions. The experiences shape your parenting style while keeping a bit of that counterculture spirit alive.
Keyphrase: Growing up with hippie parents
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