“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind its faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift.”
-Albert Einstein
I’m sure many of you have heard this quote.
In our society, we are taught from a young age to submit to outside authority figures. We are taught that others know what is best for us and that we must obey them or else we will be punished. In public school, if we do not submit to the authority figure (teacher), we are punished. The punishment is usually no big deal, perhaps time-out or detention (now that rulers and spanking are not allowed.) The part of the punishment that keeps people in line more than the punishment itself, is the feeling of being an outcast from the group. When the entire classroom is “behaving” and “fitting in” and the one being punished feels the heavy weight of shame, guilt, fear, and judgement. Wanting to stick with the crowd controls more than anything else.
In indigenous societies, the worst punishment was to be made an outcast. It was considered worse than death.
The desire to fit in with the rest, runs deep.
So many people throughout history who have stood up, spoke their truth and made a truly positive impact on the world- were often seen as being “crazy” or as being an outcast. Then later became labeled as geniuses and revolutionaries. Oh what hope these people give me at times when I feel like an outcast in a society that seems “crazy” to me!
I had authority figures in my life who said they knew what was best for me. I spent my life listening to their opinions on my choices. I spent my life submitting to their authority, surrendering my power, and relinquishing responsibility for myself. And I suffered. Because what they thought was best for me was not what was best for me at all. When Bracken was born they felt justified in telling me what was best for him too. And how to parent.
Well, as a child, I felt I had no choice, but to obey the adults around me. But now, I don’t have to anymore.
I know what’s best for me. No one else does.
It’s time to stop listening to what others tell us to do and start going inward and asking our hearts for guidance instead.
Our hearts will lead us down a powerful path.
It may seem lonely sometimes because our society is not based on following inner guidance, but submitting to outside control. And many people choose fitting in with the fearful crowd, rather than to stand alone in their light. It is painful when others don’t understand, when you’re labeled as the “crazy” one and the outcast.
But who cares?
Freedom of self expression and the joy of a soulful path is so worth it!
Be a revolutionary. Be a genius. Walk the path you know in your heart is right for you. Don’t be afraid to walk the road less traveled. To do things in a new way. To listen to your heart even when it’s not easy. You’ll be glad you did because it will bring you deep peace. Soon others who understand you will join you and you won’t be alone. But you need to shine for them to find you. You need to be yourself. Authentic, truthful, and brave.
Let all those revolutionaries throughout time be your guides and inspiration.
This is how we create positive change in the world.
Action.
This is how the best parts of those history books are written folks!
Who are your favorite revolutionaries throughout history?
I am soooooo proud of you and totally agree!!!!! You inspire me! I love you so much. You go girl!!
Heather
Rayne- Thanks!
Lindsey- It’s funny when thing are not respected “because they strayed from what was normal and accepted.” And so often those new ways are what can change our world for the better!
And I love what you say about listening to your kids. Good message!
housefullofjays- We all need to remind each other to stay strong, huh? It’s amazing how when we speak our truth, so many supportive people will be drawn to us and we realize there are others like us!
Teri- Thank you!
Oh yeah, and I forgot to respond to Anonymous earlier- your comment made me smile! Thanks! π
beautifully said
teri
Such great words! Thank you for sharing them! My family gets plenty of labels as being different because of the choices we make – thank you for reminding me to stay strong!
Oh wow is THIS true or what!!
Thanks for posting this.
I, too, grew up thinking that just because someone was older than I, meant that they knew better than I did what was best for me. Even as a little kid I knew what was best for myself, but that knowledge was never respected because it strayed from what was normal and accepted.
*sigh*
What a shame.
Ahh well, I’m just glad to now be old enough to act on what I know is best for my wellbeing.
And parents — listen to your kids! They often know what’s best for themselves better than you do. I sure did learn that… π
Applause applause!!! well said!
Julie- I’m so glad it was just what you needed to hear. My pleasure! π
Sara- Jesus was a revolutionary indeed! Teaching so much love.
Kelly- Thank you for your sweet comment! I appreciate it and I’m so glad you find inspiration here. π
Trish- Hello! Love hearing from you! I have never heard of Ray Mears. I’d love to learn more about him.
Lara- You’re the sweetest! π
Funny you mentioned Henry David Thoreau because you’ve mentioned the book ‘Walden’ multiple times and I’ve been feeling drawn to read it lately.
Taryn and Jeff Wilson are some of my favorite revolutionaries (and little Bracken too!)
And Henry David Thoreau.
Xena Warrior Princess
I really love what you have written. It made me feel a bit overwhelmed as I know exactly what you mean. I really did not enjoy being a child,I have the most wonderful family, but school, oh my goodness!!
Anyway have you heard of Ray Mears?
He teaches bushcraft skills in the UK and he is often on tv here. He is great, so different, not macho or tv presenterish. He has a deep respect for nature and aboriginal cultures- a great revolutionary in my eyes.
Hoping you have a lovely day,
Trish
You never cease to inspire and lift me up… thank you for your blog!!
Jesus!
Today I needed to read this …. thankyou π