We are each unique and must do all that we are able to maintain and even enrich our specialness. In cooperation with this we are also required to be part of others we call “society.” Both are demanding challenges that begin early in our lives and rarely are the two opposing forces receptive to cooperation.
Uniqueness comes first to us and at its roots is never diminished, but society is so powerful that its influence begins its task of shaping each of us very early in our life. In almost a hopeless battle society as led by our parents, family, teachers, friends and leaders pressures us to become what they have in mind for us to be
- If our immediate teachers themselves honor their uniqueness they will nurture this in their children. In this case what comes naturally is strengthened and the child becomes more themselves than what society expects of them. If, on the other hand, our initial teachers are themselves attached to society to the point where their uniqueness is mostly non-existent they will force this upon their children. And the children will become their parents.
- Being one’s uniqueness’ is not a serious societal problem unless the individual lives so out of society’s boundaries that what they do and how they live endangers those around them.
- Today we have the considerable danger of the Corona Virus encircling the world. It is an almost perfect example of what I’m writing here. All countries are asked to take certain precautions that severely restrict its population. Wear a mask; stay at least six feet from others, stay home, avoid others, schools, many businesses, restaurants, etc. are closed. The whole world is at risk so its societies are reacting. Individuals are being told what to do and how to live.
- Here is the perfect example of the society at large imposing restrictions on those who would fight for their independence and uniqueness and that they must adhere to what society demands.
- Here I present a possible scenario: Those that have given in to not being themselves as children adapt easily to the demands society makes on them. Those that have fought dearly for their individual rights must now adhere to what the society asked of them. Most will because what is being asked is so obvious. Some will not and may suffer the consequences. Only time and events will tell.
- There is a time for individual rights to be fought for. There is a time when compliance to the general requirements of living in a world with others and limited resources brings the necessity
for all people to live and care for each other. Is that time being announced today? Sy
Haiku:
Why do we not learn?———Experience is our gift———if we learn from it.
I need to be me———–you need to be you, also————why not help others.
Unique is a gift————-so give it to one and all————-More where that comes from.
