I watched a movie the other night about a retired wrestler. The movie was not really what I expected and I’m not going to say anything about the actual movie- other than the fact that it was a stark reminder of how insignificant we can be as individuals- and how we actually become better people not as a result of our own individual efforts but by dynamically interacting with others. I don’t think that 
interaction needs necessarily to be constant and forever- some people change us in a single conversation or a single event- for good or for bad. Others change us through long-standing proximity and still others change us by being durable confidantes that span our lives. Of course, we are all trapped in our bodies and are really forced to interact with others across the interface that we term ‘personality’, or ‘people skills’ or ‘communication’. We are forced to use that interface every day to transcend our singular existence and reach out into the lives of those around us.
I think about how I am perceived regularly. With most people I interact casually- others I seem to have some sense of hierarchy that prevents me from really being myself- and still others I seem to exhibit a groundless confidence that brings out some of my best qualities in a flurry. Most times it is likely a combination of those, and for anyone that knows me, you likely understand already that I wear my heart on my sleeve- both for me to exhibit and for others to take note of. I didn’t ask for that- that’s just the way I am.
Conversely, we influence others positively or negatively. I attended a sporting event a few weeks ago, and for whatever reason, my head and heart was not in it and I kept relatively quiet and to myself. This is not the interface most are accustomed to and immediately I started getting questions- “What’s wrong?”… “You okay?”… Even a member of the opposite team, who doesn’t even really know me other than the proximity of the weekly volleyball, asked me if I was okay. How is it that my interface stands out so brashly that even a casual acquaintance can read me like a book? Am I so transparent? Does my personality interact with others so openly that even strangers can notice when it isn’t? I was bothered by the event- but having had some time to soak on it, I’m realizing that it speaks volumes to me about how I am perceived. I mean, I rarely get “Why are you so happy?” or “Why are you smiling?” People may not be taking note of that because for me it’s the norm – which means they perceive me as a generally happy person. For the most part, that’s true.
Well, part of my interface requires expression, and at this very moment- as you read these words on this page- I am diligently at work… reaching into your life and changing you while you change me… obtaining the sustenance for that part of me that needs it… and continues to drive me to share in this little virtual world.
Maybe a movie that is easier on the head will be on tonight- like ‘Rocky’.
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Tags: Interaction, Perception, Self Expression
I’m not even sure if I liked this movie or not. I think the ending still throws me off, just not what I expected. Good points made though, keep em coming!
Zack
Saint John Web Design
Thanks Zack for commenting. The movie was pretty dark and if you’ve seen Mickey Rourke in anything else, that’s kind of his style. What I found so compelling about it was the vulnerability of a man to his circumstances- in a profession not known for showcasing vulnerability.