As a kid, I was very confused by the work-centric American lifestyle when my family returned to the States from Germany. In Europe, it didn't matter what you did for a job -- you could have worked in a shop, in a restaurant, whatever. It was just a job, and the focus of life was on spending regular time with family and friends. I still find it odd that when people meet you for the first time, their second question is usually, "what do you do?" And they don't mean for a hobby. I resent having my work define me as a person (although I do have to admit that "ecologist" pretty much covers a large portion of my interest spectrum).

Whatever you want to do is fine with me -- I'll always hug and respect you and want to spend time with you.