"Exception, n. A thing which takes the liberty to differ from other things of its class, as an honest man, a truthful woman, etc. 'The exception proves the rule' is an expression constantly on the lips of the ignorant, who parrot it from one another with never a thought of its absurdity." ~ The Devil's Dictionary, Ambrose Bierce
Are you my exception?
3 comments:
maybe this question is for someone specific, or perhaps its like a shout out in the woods, any body there? but I'll bite. clearly way more think that they are someone that does not conform to the rules or generalizations then those who will admit to being mostly predictable. and theres more to your question then just being an exception - its that the norm is so unfullfilling. we trade in being unique, special, better. it's a little bit of attention getting, hey notice me, that may be excused in part by current culture and the simple algebra of demographics. and yes, we all (big generalization there I know) hope that anyone we engage with on any form of intimate level is somehow uniquely aligned with our constellation of opinions, expectations and needs. and will see us, upon first sighting as the unique person we know ourselves to be. your exception? truthfully who could tell, without knowing just how exceptional your experience with the rules of convention have been. but its reassuring to know, at least to me, that at some point the disconnect between the picture people hold up as themselves and the reality has made you lose your appetite for more of the same. but I bet there are many who would immediately answer in the affirmative. proving your point. the answer would of course be - are you my exception? not a game - more of an equal challenge to the test. maybe in the end,through all our experiences we really do learn, we do get smarter, less about others then ourselves. first step - I know how I feel, next, being able to explain it and then, being able to listen (seriously challenging to most). the answer then becomes clear.js.
a few further thoughts - being truthful assumes we know our own truths, are secure in our opinion and engage the world from a perspective that having others know what we feel is fundamental to their ability to know us and maybe more importantly accept us and yes like us. i am not sure there is much free will involved in that equation compared to layers of experience that rewarded one type of behaviour. slowly we learn what others expect, accept and shape ourselves in response. not necessarily mean spirited, but never a foundation for meaningful intimacy on any level. and it gets boring, predictable, engaging with one eye always on the wheel waiting for the slip, the flaw, the deceit to be revealed. but it can be different if one wishes it to be and acts with intent. yes it takes strength, conviction, but most of all a comitment to oneself. a commitment to the - this is who I am - point of engagement with the world. yes most are in a state of continually refining their personal gps to ensure acceptance. but it does not have to be that way. its a choice we make. what choice do you want to make? i would like to understand. why? truthfully? your perspectives will make me think about what i think. js.
I think the question is less about the exception, and more about the rule. If you eliminate the rule (aka expectation) , than everyone becomes the exception. Therefore the exception IS the rule. However if you also eliminate the exception, you will find instead that the question is not about being the exception, but rather being exceptional.
Are you exceptional?
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