The Truth About Individuality

People like to say that they are special and unique individuals. Yet these individuals always cling to other individuals and form groups or herds. Perhaps this is for safety? From real threats or perceived, perhaps. Maybe it's simply for protection from ridicule. I've never understood this behavior.

Individuals do not cleave to others for safety of mind or body. The greatest individuals have always found ways above groups, or at least to the forefront of them. Everyone has that one friend who is completely unlike everyone else in their little social circle. Instead of following the rest of the gang, they lead it. The group is effected by this 'Alpha' in so many subtle ways. One day, one of your friends may show up with a new shirt, or new book, or mention a new idea or opinion. Then the rest of the group, out of admiration (or simply a desire to stay up to date), will follow suit.

Everyone likes to think that they are this Alpha male or female. This is often not the case. The leader leads, not because they are the strongest per se, but because they have a desire to evolve as a human being. S/he understands that who they are is not who they will be ten years from now, or even who they will be tomorrow. The desire for self-improvement is what places someone at the head of the pack.

This explains the behavior of most people. Here's where I try to look hard at myself.

I've been feeling acutely alone lately. I have few friends with whom I correspond anymore, and even fewer that I see in person. This is less to do with anti-social behavior on my part, and more to do with the aforementioned desire for self-evolution. In some ways, I've been craving the sanctuary of other people's presence. In other ways, however, I have never felt like more of an individual. It's true, I tend to stick out in a crowd. But perhaps that's because I've never "been one of the gang" and am trying to show that fact to everyone who sees me. I'm sure there's some very deep psychological reason for this behavior that I can't even begin to comprehend.

But anyway, anyone still reading this is looking for the truth. So here it is: Great individuals have always remained above or apart from groups. Think you're special? Check your surroundings.