I was working on my next article for April Magazine and was sharing stories with a lady I met at book club a few weeks back. She said how curious a thing it is that people want everyone to fit into “neat little boxes”. I like this description and also wonder at it.
Before I discuss others’ need for this, I first reflect upon myself. Am I the same? Do I make my own limiting assumptions of others? Do I want to describe people by their outer appearance, whether it is the color of their skin or the clothes that they wear, or the job that they are doing? The truth is that I do. It would be a lie and hypocritical of me to say otherwise.
At the same time, when I get a response that is different from my expectations/assumptions, I find myself curious or interested to know more. I am confident that I have never continued a line of inquiry looking for an answer to fit what I think an answer should be.
So, now about why others feel this need….
For people who have grown up in homogenous societies or have limited exposure to the global world, I can understand how it might be such an abstract concept that someone might not say they are from where they look like they are from. However, for those who are privileged enough to be exposed to people from other countries or grow up in diverse communities – then, I do not understand at all.
More importantly, I do not understand the need to push and push someone into a corner because one is not getting the desired response – no matter what the response. I mean obviously if someone looks uncomfortable with your line of questioning, wouldn’t you take the hint and redirect???
Anyway, now I rant and ramble, so I will close up. My article is coming out soon – I think. When it does I will post a link. In the meantime, break down those tiny boxes and free the mind!!!! 😛
~T 😀
