Quote:
Originally Posted by Shamou  However, that is unconscious emulating and could almost be called “social proof” and, depending on circumstances, may or may not contribute to one’s personal growth… |
True, hence all the rebellious subcultures which rapidly become commonplace, and conformist. And, where personal growth is concerned, are often a case of taking 7 steps back before delivering a kick up the butt to move forward again.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Shamou The metaphor is a power tool of representation… we all know what powerful emotions metaphors such as the flag or the cross can ignite… well, so can the person being emulated… in a flash… we can acquire the self-confidence of a Donald Trump… the dedication of Einstein… or become a budding da Vinci… |
Ahhh, I wish that were the case for me. Many people have told of experiencing epiphanies, where, as you said, in a flash everything changes. It's
never happened to me. If I were to attain the dedication of Einstein, it would be through sheer perseverance. Nothing flashy about it. But still, I agree with you about the power of metaphors, if not the way they affect us.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Akashic_Librarian Ghandi said something along the lines of:
"I do not eat meat because I believe it is a Sin, if another person who has grown up with eating meat, and sees nothing wrong with eating it, decides to not eat it simply to copy me, well thats a sin too"
I hope thats vague enough to make you all THINK more about what I mean. Instead of just not realising off the bat and then asking me what it means  Think people, its the only way to live. |
See, this actually gives us something to think about. However before, when you spoke in absolutes, you gave us nothing but the literal meaning of your words. If your meaning was anything other than those absolutes then your words did not match your meaning and we're left not
thinking about, but
guessing what your meaning could possibly be. That's no way to communicate effectively, nor to encourage thoughts that lead anywhere but to questions.
But I do partially agree with your meaning, if not the words. There is little or nothing to be gained from emulating someone just because they're apparently someone special. I don't believe that's what Shamou is advocating. It's what and how that's important, not who.
I see nothing wrong with deciding on what you want to do, then looking to others to see how they do it, so that you might see how you can do it
better. There's a lot to be said for experimentation, and perseverance, but why look inside for answers to questions which someone else has answered better than we could?