Hey Thanks, Former Mayor Megan Barry, for Living Your Best Life
I see you on Instagram, Megan, posting those fire selfies. Might I say, ma’am, that your hair is looking fabulous. Are you crimping it, or does it just look that fly all on its own?Â
You were at the Maggie Rose show at The Basement East because, girl, of course you were. The cheeseburger you ate at Brown’s Diner looked delicious. The red snapper at Little Octopus seemed absolutely divine. The latte art that said “love” — I’m into it. The tomato avocado toast at the Tomato Art Fest? Don’t even get me started.Â
And before you start to think I’m getting all Brad Schmitt from The Tennessean on you, I’m not. Apparently Brad thought it was shameful for you to keep supporting and living in your city after resigning. “It’s the regular posting online with big shots and celebs — I’m with the March for Our Lives organizer! I’m with Demetria Kalodimos! I’m friends with guys in Old Crow Medicine Show! — that feels a little showy to some folks,” Schmitt scolded.
It’s an odd thing that some people keep asking how you dare keep living your life and showing your face in this city. How dare you move on after your embarrassing scandal and eventual resignation! People who make mistakes, women especially, are often expected to hide in a hole forever after. That expectation is harmful, and not just to you, Megan, a person who made mistakes. If we can’t move on from our worst decisions — or let someone who’s clearly suffered consequences for their actions move on — then who are we? You are still part of the community, and you clearly aren’t giving that up.Â
So thank you, Megan, for doing you. I’ll be scrolling through Instagram looking for your next great meal, semi-blurry concert photo or group selfie with local celebs. And by the way, you should get the tattoo.
—Amanda Haggard
Associate editor, Nashville Scene
