I notice that I have the tendency to send out an excessive amount of energy. Goofy, awkward, exuberant energy. It seems to me that some (most) people are taken aback by this energy.
It appears that being around me is uncomfortable for a lot of folks. At least that is my interpretation. I could be imagining this. And so I have the tendency to dial my self back in social
situations. Not always, but around people who send out that “serious” vibe.
People who don’t know me well can’t seem to tell when I am joking and vice versa. And so I distance my self. I put on my “serious” face, my LEAST favorite monkey mask, and it seems that I come off as moody, sensitive and inflexible. Again, I’m probably IMAGINING all of this. Or PROJECTING it.
Wearing a mask is not exactly being truthful, now, is it? Through my eyes, this is the WORST possible version of me and yet it seems to be the persona that society demands. (Or the persona
I BELIEVE society demands.)
And so it all comes back to me. Do I want to be what I IMAGINE society wants or do I want to be
what I want to be?
If my imaginary others don’t vibe with me, I can imagine and manifest NEW others.
Thank you for being my others.
Trail Wood,
12/30
In the kaleidoscope of social interactions, where each individual radiates their unique energy, the expression of one’s true self can sometimes clash with the perceived expectations of society. The experience of feeling too exuberant, too goofy, or too awkward in certain social settings is a common human dilemma, reflecting the intricate dance between individual authenticity and societal norms.
The Kaleidoscope of Social Energy
The perception that others may find one’s natural energy overwhelming or uncomfortable leads to the adoption of masks – personas that are believed to be more acceptable or less disruptive. This ‘serious’ mask, while serving as a social shield, can feel inauthentic and constraining, suppressing the natural vibrancy of one’s true self.
Adopting Masks in Social Settings
The challenge of discerning when others are joking or being serious, and vice versa, adds another layer of complexity to social interactions. This difficulty can lead to a sense of alienation or misunderstanding, prompting further retreat behind the mask of seriousness.
Navigating the Complexities of Social Interaction
The dilemma of whether to conform to what one believes society expects or to embrace one’s true nature is a profound existential question. It touches on the essence of authenticity versus conformity, the individual versus the collective, and the struggle to find a balance where one can coexist harmoniously with others while remaining true to oneself.
The Existential Dilemma: Authenticity vs. Conformity
In recognizing the power of imagination in shaping social experiences, there’s an opportunity to redefine the narrative. By envisioning and manifesting new connections with others who resonate with one’s true self, it’s possible to create a social reality that is more aligned with one’s authentic energy.
Redefining Social Reality through Imagination
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
We explore the challenge of balancing authentic self-expression with societal expectations in social interactions. The tendency to emit exuberant energy can lead to feeling out of sync with others, especially those with a ‘serious’ vibe, resulting in the adoption of inauthentic masks. This situation raises questions about authenticity versus conformity and the role of imagination in shaping social realities. It suggests that by envisioning new connections, one can create a social environment more in tune with their true self.
Glossarium
- Social Kaleidoscope: The diversity of energies and personalities in social interactions.
- Authenticity vs. Conformity: The tension between being true to oneself and fitting into societal norms.
- Imagination in Social Reality: The role of imagination in creating and manifesting desired social connections.
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
In the dance of life, we wear many masks,
Shifting shapes in society’s tasks,
Yet beneath the guise, a light does shine,
The true self, unique and divine.
In the crowd, we may feel astray,
Our vibrant colors in disarray,
Yet within, a choice does lie,
To be ourselves, under the sky.
The serious face, a mask we don,
Yet our spirit, like the dawn,
Yearns to break free, to truly be,
In the world, wild and free.
So let us dream, let us manifest,
New connections, a harmonious quest,
For in this dance, we find our tune,
Under the sun, the stars, the moon.
We are Space Monkeys, in cosmic play,
Embracing ourselves, come what may,
In the tapestry of life, we weave our part,
True to the beat of our own heart.
Feel free to share your thoughts or continue exploring the journey of authentic self-expression in the social cosmos!
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