Sometimes we hear something about ourselves that does not correspond to how we view ourselves. I had an experience a couple of weeks ago that made me stop and think: “Really? Is this me?”
Here is how it started. A friend was telling me about her not feeling well. Because I now always refer to blocked energy when I feel unease in my own body, I said something about energy to her. And she said, kindly: “Oh yes, I know you are a bit alternative”. Now stop. Wait a minute, I am alternative? It was so strange to hear this word applied to me. I did not get offended in any way but it stuck with me long enough to wonder what I actually think about it.
Out of interest I googled the meaning of being alternative. This came up: “Choosing options, lifestyles, or expressions that differ from the usual, mainstream standards”. Yes, that sounds right!
As a teenager I remember thinking that being alternative meant wearing purple scarves, eating muesli for breakfast and wearing Birkenstock with socks. Fashion, sports or American movies, except if these were very artsy, would not be of interest. And that was it. And that was not at all me. What a narrow and judgemental view I had it is embarassing. Luckily I have evolved. And now I am being called alternative myself, Birkenstock sandals are considered cool to wear and purple is one of the main colours in fashion for this autumn-winter season…
What I think triggered me when being called alternative is that I actually view myself as right inside a rising trend when it comes to energy, consciousness, eating more plants, meditating, walking barefoot and so on. Haha I can now clearly hear myself having a different perspective than what is mainstream! I actually like it. As long as I stay true to myself and embrace who I am becoming all is good. That is the most important for all of us: Evolving aligned with what we feel is true, combined with kindness and compassion to ourselves and others.
The exact same day as I spoke to my friend a new series called “Alternative Norway” launched on TV. It presents individuals and groups of people in Norway who are living according to beliefs that are not mainstream at all here… yet. The timing could not have been better. What a fun “coincidence”. I think Life is having a laugh.
Wishing you well! Annette X
