Be Different

 This week in class, we had a Harkness discussion about the short story “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. In the story, all of the townspeople participate in the horrible tradition of stoning someone to death every year for no real reason. Even though they all don’t want to be the one stoned to death, nobody speaks out about it. This is an example of people conforming to the norm just to not stand out. 

Conforming to the norm isn’t always good. The example seen in the story is that conforming can actually harm yourself, others, and societies as a whole. When something is wrong, but everyone still does it, that doesn’t make it any more morally correct. Society has brainwashed us into thinking that the norm, and only the norm, is correct. We shouldn’t be afraid to voice our opinions to protect each other or state what we think is correct. Everyone can have their own ideas, and it’s ok if they’re not all the same. 

Another example of why conforming isn’t always good is because we are all meant to stand out. This week, I had an audition for dance. If everyone danced the same way, there would be no point of the audition and they wouldn’t know who to choose. If everyone danced the same way, the dance would look boring. However, many dancers meshing together into a rhythm of their own styles is what is truly amazing to watch. I, as a dancer, strive to have my own unique style and stand out from others. Don’t be afraid to stand out because frankly, blending in is boring.