The Indispensable Beliefs for a Normal Life: A Personal Reflection
I don’t know the questioner or your age. I know I’ve lapped the sun nearly 70 times and my components several billion times. Wow!
Among we Ancient Ones it is said, ‘Old Age Ain’t for Sissies.’ Life ain’t for sissies sisters and brothers. In this question, we have no idea what your ‘normal’ would be. Many times, the notion of ‘normal’ is subjective and varies greatly from person to person.
My Plate of 'Normal'
My plate of ‘Normal’ included lots of prejudice toward and fear about people not like me. It included two high school-educated parents wanting me to be more highly educated and have less pain and suffering in life than they did. A house, car, marriage, and children were expected in my normal. The norms all around me wanted me to frivolously spend all my earnings plus lots more on stuff I never knew I needed or wanted. Then eBay and Amazon were dreamed up. Oye!
Foundation: Christianity
My foundation was Christianity. I don’t know if the following makes any sense to you. My genetic Christmas stocking was filled with lots of good stuff and a few coal lumps. At three years old, I knew I was essentially on my own and had to make my own way. My gifts were a certain intelligence and physical fitness. My lumps were anger, mental instability, stubbornness, plus blindness and various kinds of tendon scarring.
The Pursuit of Normalcy
My normal has always been to stand back up, walk on no matter what knocks me down, knowing I am blind to my personal shortcomings and trying to shine light in that personal darkness. Yes, most beliefs in the Western world have an expectation to be believed in. Most of our beliefs are due to socialization, and anyone who rejects accepted beliefs is immediately marginalized. Those who question established beliefs are seen as eccentric conspiracy theorists or plain nutters!
Challenges in Questioning Beliefs
When people question these beliefs and offer alternative answers, whether in private or made public, these people find it difficult to live 'normal' lives. And this happens before anything has been proven either way. Going back through history, there is a never-ending list of people who have been ridiculed for suggesting ‘outlandish’ theories. Too many to list, of course, and not all have been correct, but many have.
The Risks of Voice and Outright Ridicule
Even talking with friends and family can leave you left out in the cold. Without getting into David Ickes’ shape-shifting theories, for example, we already know how the world can react to outlandish or unconventional ideas.
However, the pursuit of truth and the courage to challenge our beliefs are essential for personal growth and societal progression. While it’s natural to feel the pressure to conform, it’s also crucial to have a support system that encourages and respects diverse viewpoints.
Conclusion
In the end, the beliefs that make life 'normal' for one person may not be the same for another. It's imperative to recognize that different individuals have their own unique experiences and challenges, and these shape their outlook on life. Embrace the diversity in perspectives and beliefs, and strive to build a community that supports and respects each other's journeys.
Remember, standing firm in your beliefs, whether they align with societal norms or not, is a significant part of what makes life meaningful. Knowing who you are and what you stand for can guide you through the challenges and unexpected turns life throws at you.