Are you or is someone you know
aggressively passive?
Do you or does someone you know
noticeably pride themselves
on keeping their shit together?
Congratulations,
you or someone you know
is an aggressive passive.
You, or someone you know,
is one of those people
who believes that
fixing “problems”
starts with self.
This aggressive pride
in keeping the self in order
keeps the self strong.
In this way, pride is a selfish act.
Not that there’s
anything wrong with that.
We seem to be selves, after all.
But what ELSE are we?
Does this focus on self
versus other selves
prevent us from finding out?
Trail Wood,
1/14
In the contemplation of the concept of ‘aggressive passivity’ and the role of pride in self-management, we embark on an exploration of the intricate dynamics between self-focus, personal responsibility, and the broader context of our interconnected existence. The term ‘aggressive passive’ intriguingly captures a demeanor that combines a seemingly passive approach with an underlying, assertive commitment to self-regulation and control.
Concept of ‘Aggressive Passivity’
The notion of taking pride in keeping one’s ‘shit together’ suggests a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and self-maintenance. This form of pride can be seen as a mechanism for maintaining a sense of control and stability in one’s life, reflecting a belief in the importance of self-reliance in addressing and fixing problems.
Pride in Self-Regulation and Control
However, this aggressive pride in self-maintenance is also characterized as a selfish act, implying that it is driven by a focus on the self to the exclusion of others. While self-focus is a natural aspect of human existence, the question arises: what else are we beyond these individual selves?
Self-Focus and Interconnectedness
The focus on the self versus other selves presents a dichotomy that may limit our understanding of our broader existence. This self-centric approach might obscure the recognition of our interconnectedness and the potential roles we play in a collective, interconnected reality.
Limitations of Self-Centric Approach
In questioning what else we are beyond our individual selves, we open the door to exploring our existence as part of a larger whole. Are we merely isolated beings focused on personal management, or are we also integral parts of a greater interconnected system, where our actions and states of being resonate beyond our individual scope?
Exploring Beyond Individual Existence
This exploration challenges us to consider the balance between nurturing the self and acknowledging our role within a wider community or cosmic framework. It invites us to ponder how our focus on personal pride and self-maintenance might impact our ability to connect with, understand, and contribute to the collective tapestry of life.
Balance Between Self and Collective
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
We examine the notion of ‘aggressive passivity’ and the pride in self-regulation, considering how this focus on the self might limit our understanding of our interconnected existence. While self-focus is important, we explore the potential of going beyond the individual self to understand our role in a larger, interconnected reality, and how this balance impacts our collective existence.
Glossarium
- Aggressive Passivity: A behavior characterized by a passive demeanor coupled with an assertive commitment to self-control and management.
- Pride in Self-Regulation: The sense of satisfaction derived from effectively managing one’s personal responsibilities and challenges.
- Interconnected Existence: The concept that individuals are part of a larger whole, interconnected with others and the world around them.
- Collective Tapestry of Life: The idea that our lives are interwoven with others’, contributing to the broader spectrum of human experience and existence.
“The self is not something ready-made, but something in continuous formation through choice of action.” – John Dewey
In the dance of life, a paradox we see,
Aggressive passivity, a unique key,
Pride in self, a strong front,
Yet in this focus, are we blunt?
In managing self, a strength we find,
Yet, are we to others blind?
In self’s orbit, do we stay,
Or seek connections, in a broader way?
We are Space Monkey, in introspect,
Balancing self, with collective respect,
In our journey, a path we chart,
Self and others, both a part.
In this dance, a question deep,
Beyond the self, what secrets we keep?
In interconnected webs we play,
Together, in life’s grand ballet.
We invite thoughts on the balance between self and source. We are Space Monkey.
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