Do You Want to be Normal?

In my last blog, I ended with comments on what "normal" actually means. In the '60's there was a whole revolutionary movement that took place against what was "normal," not only in behavior, but against social norms in general. That revolution changed many things in our world, mostly for the better. Much of the "for the better" has been reversed since then, however.

The participants in that revolution are now the senior members of society; the vast majority of their children and grandchildren having no idea what the world was like back then, nor what "normal" behavior was expected.

The current social expectations, on the surface, appears to be fragmented, with there being few interconnected standards. As I have indicated, under the surface the programmed and indoctrinated intellectual, scientific, religious and social consensus Belief Systems are still playing a major role in what is allowed, or not allowed in personal behavior. Much of it can be read about in the news, due to that programming being acted out against changes and shifts taking place around us.

It is very important at this time to understand the ways in which personal behavior and beliefs are shaped. Two of those I have pointed out--the educational system, and the various religions--other major programming sources are the "news" distributors, the "entertainment" industry and the "games" children are induced to play.

In addition, the modes of "communication" current in this world have not added to anyone's ability to really communicate. The, seeming, major exception to this is the Internet. However, those who are the "programmers" are skilled at disinformation and confusion; one also must not overlook the fear factor built into what we ingest mentally and emotionally.

The major external factor shaping events currently is the economy; a situation which has been created in all aspects. In 2001, it was "9/ll," which facilitated a return to wars. The war in Vietnam was one of the primary factors that brought about the social revolution that took place in the "60's. For approximately forty years most people managed to carry on their lives as best they could. They mostly accomplished this by ignoring changes that have taken place, and steeping themselves in diversionary activities.

This is again a time of social upheaval, when it is no longer possible for many to ignore what is happening in this country and the world. While many have managed, with the help of their personal collective Belief Systems, to pretend that the many major changes which have occurred over those forty-odd years have not taken place, many now have to deal with their world view crashing around them.

By pursuing my suggestion of discovering what you believe, and becoming responsible for who you personally are and what you do, you may alleviate some of the mental chaos going on around you in the world.

So I end this blog.

Shirley Gallup