QUOTATION OF THE WEEK
Always remember you are unique, just like everyone else.
--Alison Boulter
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
We sometimes forget the uniqueness that we possess as we try to "keep up with the Jones" or with the latest fashions or gimmicks. Each of us is like a snowflake, no two the same. Even identical twins have their differences. We should honor this uniqueness and not be afraid of it. The fact that we have our own dreams and the fact that we go about fulfilling our dreams in our own unique way, is what make us grow and evolve. Our part in this play of life is not really a little one when we realize our uniqueness and allow it to manifest itself. What causes stagnation is where we just follow the crowd and do not follow our own unique inner voice--the one that is telling us the right thing to do.
Another side to this uniqueness is that not only are we unique but so is everyone else. Is that news to you? It seems like a no brainer perhaps, but think about it. We often label people as a certain "type" or put them in a certain group or race and we stereotype them. We may think, "They are one of ‘those people'" or "What can you expect from someone like that?" The media often talks about countries or nationalities rather than individual people, and we begin to look at "them" as a group. We look at teenagers, blacks, the homeless, gays, Jews, the military, police, etc., etc., etc. as categories rather than people with their own uniqueness. When we do this, we dehumanize them and lose contact with the individual spirit that they have. We also lose true understanding of the unique role they play in the scheme of life.
So the next time you feel the need to conform, the next time you hear categories given to people, stop and explore the uniqueness that each of us possesses. Look at yourself and others as individuals with a uniqueness that sets apart each person. Honor those individual differences. This will open the door to a truer understanding of people and issues.
Blessings and Love,
Allen Schmeltz
Copyright © 2000 Allen F. Schmeltz. All rights reserved.
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