Oh Me Oh My

Monday, September 08, 2008

Contradictions


I find that life is full of contradictions. Whether it's the religious texts that tell is to seek an "eye for an eye" but then condemn revenge, or people who wish more "real women" were shown in advertising, who then grimace with revulsion at a celebrity with a bit of flab on the beach. It's like we're constantly struggling to be someone and be the exact oppposite all at once.

Reach for the stars but keep your feet on the ground.
It's funny that we encourage people to chase their dreams, but are all at once wary of people who actually do so. You want to be a singer? That's all well and good, but do you have a backup in case that doesn't pan out? Fashion design sounds fascinating, but maybe take a few courses in air conditioning repair in case Heidi Klum don't come a knockin'.

I love travelling but I hate being a tourist.
I have never understood this weird dynamic. It is respectful, even covetted, to be someone who travels, yet nothing sounds more garish than being a tourist. Are these things not one in the same? It's like if you go to New York and eat in some obscure deli in the middle of nowhere it's okay, but if you happen to see the Statue of Liberty, and icon of Americana, you should be shot in the face.

Wear your heart on your sleeve, but keep it protected.
Experts always say you have to be open to love. You have to share who you are. You have to give of yourself completely, yadda yadda yadda, but then a whole other panel of experts will tell you to keep on guard, to watch for signals, to make sure the pre-nup is signed.

So which is it? Is it a case of wanting it every way? Are we constantly wanting to have the cake we're eating, or just confused about what we're supposed to want? Thoughts?