I was just browsing Shelfari and came across a member whose screen name is "nonconformist." Isn't it somewhat conformist to claim oneself as a nonconformist? There are enough people claiming the label of "nonconfirmist" that it is now conforming to do so. The pattern toward which conforming is really taking place is that of arrogance. There exists a certain connotation toward pride of self when one labels oneself as a person who does not "conform" as if everybody else does conform to some measurable standard or cultural norm. So to all self-proclaimed "nonconformists," I say, "Quit conforming" to the patterns of this world.
May we seek humility.
Matthew 5:38-48, NASB
"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone want to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only you brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
6 comments:
For that matter, can anyone on the internet refer to themself as a nonconformist? The better be using Norton Utilities still if that is the case.
or have a mac
which, having a mac would make them even more a conformist.
Would it be conforming if you weighed out the difference between a PC and a Mac and then decided, not based on what popular culture chooses?
May I suggest (and I hate when people suggest books they just read as if it's the greatest thing ever written, but here I go anyways) THE COMING COMMUNITY by Giorgio Agamben? He discusses in that book the danger of identity labels, and how the future of human interaction will either be controlled by power interests who can manipulate identity formation through labels or will be enjoyed by people who no longer have the need to label themselves by categorical labels such as nonconformist. I like this idea, and feel like that has been my secret struggle for 12 years or so. I want to be who I am, in my flux, without being (pre)determined by a label of my own or others' choosing.
corbin. very well said. i received a gift to purchase some books so i may check that out.
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