I just want to be normal…

When I ask someone ‘how do you want to feel?’ I will inevitably get the answer ‘normal’. We have all been taught that we should feel a certain way. But if we can recognize that everyone is different (gender, race, religion, etc.) than why would we want how we feel to be the same?

Meriam Webster defines ‘normal’ as:

1. conforming to a type, standard, or regular pattern : characterized by that which is considered usual, typical, or routine

2. according with, constituting, or not deviating from a norm, rule, procedure, or principle

3. occurring naturally

4. approximating the statistical average or norm

5. generally free from physical or mental impairment or dysfunction : exhibiting or marked by healthy or sound functioning

6. not exhibiting defect or irregularity

7. within a range considered safe, healthy, or optimal

It isn’t until the 5th definition that we get anything that might be applicable, because I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to describe myself as “standard” or “not deviating from procedure”. And still what does “mental impairment or dysfunction” mean in the real world? I think most people with a disability would call these simplified definitions offensive (and I understand the purpose of a dictionary, I am using this to make a point about how we view ourselves).

I would argue that based on these definitions #7 on this list is acceptable, if you can define what “optimal” is for you. That is the key, what does it personally mean. You have a unique genetic structure (nature) that was raised in a unique environment (nurture). Human beings are not simple creatures, we are complex by nature, and come with all kinds of curveballs.

Can you define what your optimal is?