Coming Out: “Belonging”
When I have nothing to be proud of… when my life is devoid of real accomplishment, meaningful projects, or honorable character…
I can simply attach myself to a self-congratulatory group that has declared itself superior to all the other groups.
Voila! Effortless “self-esteem”… instant “salvation” by identification…
… a ready-made “refuge” from my anxieties and shortcomings.
… instant “relief” from boredom and frustration… from doubt, guilt, shame, and cowardice.
… a great escape from responsibility… and therefore from the anguish of freedom.
My need to “belong” in direct proportion to my failure to become a person… “finding” myself by losing myself… in superficial alliances, patriotism, and religious zeal.
… a popular way to hide in plain sight… to fail at life while preserving my anonymity.
All that said, the values of the particular herd that absorbs me are immaterial…
It’s the approval of the herd that really matters…
… and any convenient herd will do.
Learn more… Coming Out: Monkey See, Monkey Do
Existentialism Humanism Religion atheism Christianity conformity existentialism faith Islam Judaism Religion salvation self-esteem
Frank J Peter View All →
A uniquely burdened and blessed citizen of the world thinking and acting out loud!
I usually have a strong distaste for anyone that is only accomplished in the field of religion. To me, it means they don’t have any real skills.
LikeLiked by 1 person
“Accomplished”, yes… I hear you, man… not only no real skills, but no real moral foundation or backbone.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s definitely absurd to feel pride or self-esteem because of something one had no control over, such as one’s race or nationality.
I suppose religion counts as something the individual does have control over, but it’s still a pretty odd thing to take pride in. Pride should be reserved for things that took some effort to accomplish.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for adding unjustified pride to the list of poison fruits of tribalism. I, like you, prefer to earn my rewards and self esteem. Peace.
LikeLike
Great point again Sir Frank. No one person is as dumb as all of us. So here’s how it goes; I’m having trouble being alone. I feel inadequate. I join up with a totally lost ideology that makes no sense at all. Now I feel better. Go figure!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Another nice encapsulation, as always, Jim. Thanks and peace.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is powerful
LikeLiked by 1 person
Tribalism without thought
LikeLiked by 1 person
Mindless and heartless tribalism indeed, Mary. Unfortunately, an extremely common disease… and a primary means most hominids employ to “organize” themselves. : (
LikeLiked by 2 people