WILD
“Wild - the challenge to an assumed order of things”
Wild Things by Jack Halberstam
How “wild’ are you, based on the above definition? Some of us may naturally question more. Author Gretchen Rubin describes “rebels” in The Four Tendencies as those who are not motivated by internal or external expectations and I would imagine they are more likely to question, doubt, challenge status quo. Others may find that questioning societies, cultures or institutions assumptions is terrifying. What will others think? Will I be rejected? What could I lose?
And many, if not most, institutions are built on foundations that discourage challenges, questions and doubts to the assumed order of things. I think of most churches. Challenges to doctrine, “core beliefs” and expectations can be discouraged, ignored and minimized. Some churches mock and criticize those with questions. Some may blame the individual challenging status quo at a church, “you lack faith,” “you must be engaging in sin,” or “you’ve been led astray.” When, actually, just maybe, there is a legitimate issue with the doctrine, core belief and expectations of the church.
The wild, choose to challenge the assumptions of the institution. All institutions; churches, marriage, family, business, government, finances, etc.
Clearly we can say the status quo is not working for many people, right? Let’s question it. In our own lives, first. How are we living into assumed expectations that are actually not best for our wellbeing?
Spending more than we earn to keep up? Assuming we are heterosexual or cis? Numbing our discomfort with substances? Focusing on building our safe, comfortable, full of stuff home? Always saying yes to avoid a rupture? Our cultures and institutions assumptions about what creates a beautiful life can lead us quite astray. You decide what a beautiful life is for you.
Thank you to all who have gone before us and challenged the assumed order of things. Let us strive towards that together as well.
Be wild my dear one.