For those of you who don't follow The Office, Ms. Kelly Kapoor is demonstrating for us how it has become so unusual for a person to openly speak their mind that anyone who does draws attention to themselves. My next question is this: when did it go out of style to tell people what you really think? If we filter almost everything we say and do, what's left?
The sad reality is that the more similar we are, the better we get along. If across the world, everyone had the same political, religious, social, and economic beliefs, we would all be the best of friends. On a smaller scale, if you and the guy sitting next to you in class are both wearing differently crazy clothes, you would each look at the other and think, "Wow, that guy's insane." Instead, if you and your classmate were both wearing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, you'd think, "Hmm... this kid's got good taste." You're more likely to enjoy the company of people that you're similar to. Since everyone is unique, we dull ourselves down in order to be able to connect with a wider range of people.
Is this a conscious decision? Do we choose to censor ourselves for the sake of human interaction? And as for the people that make the decision to be 100% true to themselves, such as Timothy Treadwell, do they sacrifice their ability to have relationships with others for the sake of following their dreams?
Is it possible to genuinely get to know someone?
I totally agree with you! I think it's odd that people won't speak their minds openly, but sometimes I think that's probably for the best. Also, I don't know if I think that people never show their true selves, I think maybe we only show part of ourselves. I mean I'm sure most everyone is someone different when they are with their family versus when they are with their teachers. It's just appropriate not always to be exactly "who you are" with everyone. But I guess that proves your point that we censor ourselves in order to make relationships..
ReplyDeleteThis idea of "no filter" to show who you are reminds me of America's Next Top Model. I remember that all the girls on the show are like, "I'm real. I dont hold anything back". How this translates is girls acting like complete pooh faces to each other, saying whatever mean comment comes to their mind, just because they "have no filter" and are saying what they truly think. Now, I'm all for being yourself but Sheridan brings up an important point that there are certain situations in which a filter is necessary. Just because you have an opinion or comment doesn't mean you shouldn't say it. And by not saying it, that does not imply that you are hiding a piece of who you are. On the flip side, though, I do agree with you that we should be ourselves and not try to be hide who we are for others - we just need to do it appropriately:)
ReplyDeleteClaire, Fine job blogging this quarter (though total is a little low). This post has potential but seems very general. "We" don't speak our minds? Never? Do you mean to be exploring the rise or decline of manners? Political correctness? Then, of course, there's that huge topic "being true to ourselves"....
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