This act of "passing" and putting on a performance to fit into what is normal definitely struck a chord with me. We can be "normal" in many ways, but having one quality that alters our self-perception can change everything. It makes a person realize that being able to exist unapologetically is often a privilege. This constant inner tension and anxiety underlie everything in your life when you feel like you have something to hide. In my opinion, that's not truly living; that's surviving. #so345
@lickety_splitz I really agree with this perspective. The idea of “passing” shows how exhausting it can be for people to constantly manage how they present themselves just to avoid stigma or judgment. It also highlights how what we consider “normal” is socially defined, and not everyone has the privilege of existing without worrying about how they’ll be perceived. The chapter really emphasizes how hidden stress can shape someone’s entire experience of everyday life. #so345
@matluvr @lickety_splitz I agree. The idea that people have to change things that they sometimes can’t control just so that they can fit in causes unnecessary mental strain. The mental energy it takes is to hide something to pass as “normal” in society often doesn’t fix the feelings of not belonging it just makes the struggle more internal. #so345