Getting Along

I often wonder why people think they are inferior to others, whether in the way they look, dress, or live. Why is it so important to conform, or fit in? Why not just be ourselves? Personally, I used to worry about things like that, even though I never did fit in, but since I've become older, I no longer care, and haven't for some time. When I was in school I never felt like I looked as good as others, my hair didn't conform to conventional styles, my clothing wasn't as nice, and my family situation didn't seem to measure up with theirs. Why did I care?

Now as I look back, I wonder why it concerned me. I was just as good, my life was just different, as was my unruly hair, and my clothing. As long as we have the essentials to eat, a place to lie our heads, clothing to cover us, and someone who cares, why do we compare ourselves to anyone else? Regardless of social status, skin colour, religion, the way we choose to dress, or our imperfections, we are all basically created the same. There is no reason why anyone should be made to feel less than equal.

I remember when my daughter was growing up, and how mean and rude children could be. She had red curly hair, and was made to feel inferior because of that natural fact. It is sad when a child is made to feel like an outsider because of some physical attribute that is beyond their control. Eventually, she learned to come to terms with the problem, and because of it, became capable of telling off those who needed it, and standing up for herself. Sometimes we have to toughen up, and show what we are made of, because nothing else will suffice. If we don't, they will continue with their wicked ways, and making our lives miserable.

I have learned to live, and let live, in my out of the way place in the country. I think we all need to become more patient, and understanding, in our dealings with others. Otherwise, how will we learn to achieve even a modicum of civility with our surroundings?