This is an unpopular opinion, but I enjoy thinking about things from all sides. These words are thoughts I’ve decided to write down, a ramble if you will. I understand that many do not, and will continue to not agree with me on this, and that’s okay!
This is a great discussion piece. The point of this post is to challenge ourselves to think critically about how we view one another, and our own concepts of self. Why are we “special”? Is such a word an accurate description of all of us, and if so, doesn’t that cancel out the meaning of the word?
Why should we be under the impression that we as human beings are any more special than other animal species? There is so much still yet to be unveiled in the animal kingdom. Our knowledge of our natural world is ever-expanding! How can we presume the title of “special” in a world full of brilliant beauty outside of ourselves? Is it so bad to not be special?
Let’s talk about it.
It’s interesting to reflect on all the times we were told, “you’re special”. Even when it may or may not have been warranted. To take great pride in how special we really are is seen generally as a good thing.
Okay, what if I told you, you aren’t special? What if I said, there is no specific or preordained plan for your life. Would that absolutely crush you? Would your sense of identity crumble for a moment? Well, I don’t think it should, because your worth as a person does not depend on your being special.
When we believe and teach others that we as individuals are special, it creates a breeding ground for entitlement and anxiety. Of course, this isn’t always the case, but it is an increased likelihood. We mislabel ourselves as special when maybe what we should be saying instead is, “unique”.
Yes, we are all intricately and beautifully unique. We each view the world through a unique lens, utilizing our unique past experiences and convictions to base our present and future moments. The word “special” when applied to a person holds meaning that just doesn’t hold up against the truth of reality; no one is better than anyone else.
Also, what makes humans any better or more special than the other incredible animal species in this vast world? Some of which are yet to be discovered. We are all united in our imperfect humanity. The word ‘special’ indicates a greater value than something or someone else.
Even if that wasn’t the intended meaning, it often manages to seep through to the subconscious.
On another note, words are in essence, meaningless. We have the power in redefining certain words to create a new narrative. However, it is important to remember the difference between innocent interpretation, versus mistaken or incorrect use.
The belief that we are special limits our perception of reality. The fact is, if we were to die tomorrow, nothing would really change. The world would keep spinning, and life goes on. Of course, in the context of family and friends, any death is sure to produce grief and deep sorrow.
Our presence in the lives of others creates unique impacts that we may never be fully aware of. In this way, we can be special to those closest to us, and that is a beautiful thing. However, in the grand scheme of things, it’s healthy to recognize that we do not hold any greater or special value automatically just because we exist.
I would like to clarify, that although existing doesn’t make us special, it also is important to recognize that by simply existing we are already enough. We are enough just by being here on this planet today.
There is so much buzz around hustle culture lately, that I feel people often forget this and lose themselves in the process of trying to gain unattainable acceptance, satisfaction, and praise from those around them.
There are better ways of validating ourselves that to slap on the good ole “special” sticker. Here is a secret; it is actually more liberating to embrace the fact that you aren’t special, than it is to think that you are. Now hear me out.
When we accept the fact that there is nothing especially profound or special about the nature of our existence, we give ourselves permission to just be. We are able to see clearly that all of life is beautiful, and be humbled in our privilege to be a part of it. Key word being: humbled. Let’s humble our hungry egos by accepting the fact that although we are all unique, none of us are special in comparison to another person, animal, insect, or dare I even say molecule.
When we are humbled in the knowledge that the world doesn’t actually need us, we can more fully embrace how against the odds it is that we exist at all! How fortunate we are to be here, on this planet with all of its inhabitants.
It truly is a privilege to exist in this spectacular and vivid universe. All of life is fascinating and mind boggling. And sometimes, it doesn’t make sense, and often times, it isn’t fair. I implore you to step down from the platform of “specialness” and view the world for what it is, magnificent and unique.
If you have any further thoughts, comments or questions please find me via the contact page.
Thoughts to Writings 