Dependent

That is what I am now.

Having just picked up my visa at the Japanese consulate, right there under "category", it says 'as dependent'.

Now, for someone who has worked since she was ten and has virtually never not been able to support herself, being "a dependent" is strange concept.

For someone who has always been very INdependent, it is even stranger.

For someone who enjoys the freedom that comes with being able to keep myself in the lifestyle I want; the power to make my own choices; the knowledge of the concept that no matter how those choices turn out, they were made without having to compromise my desires or make choices based on the need to "be provided for", it is truly bizarre.

I'm just not sure I know how to be 'dependent'.