The concept of 'Normal' is bounded by reality as a holographic construct that, paradoxically, has no bounds - trapping us in illusions while inviting endless possibilities. Its influences are seldom seen but deeply felt, shaping our thoughts, fears, and dreams beneath the surface.
Within the hologram, the 'norm' can be defined as a preprogrammed set of shared beliefs, behaviors, and expectations that create a sense of stability and predictability that work only for a period of time until one day that "norm" becomes stifling and outdated - redirecting it to "the next".
Norms are never 'set in stone'. They are fluid constructs with limited duration, designed to evolve as consciousness and society shift.
In a time when authenticity is valued over conformity, it's clear that 'normal' was never one-size-fits-all - it was part of the illusion waiting to be updated.
Gen Z - Today, they stand at the forefront of changing norms. A prime example was presented this week as Zoran Mamdani, 34, became the next mayor of NYC with 50.4% of the vote - influenced by GenZ (as in Z) spearheading the new norm that gives them hope for a better destiny than that which the old 'normal' manifested.
Religion - A major shift in societal norms is happening around religion. People today no longer adhere to the traditional belief that a God or extraterrestrial being watches over them as a savior. Instead, norms around religion, spirituality, and metaphysics are evolving into tools for healing and comfort - sometimes effective, sometimes not - paving the way for the search for new paradigms and answers to age old questions about the journey of humanity.
Emotions - The norm is "See a therapist". It is also an acceptable norm to take medication along with making other lifestyle changes in order to function.
DNA - We now understand the many version of the human experiment and the currently recognized path of those who are 'on the spectrum' - referring to emotional problems and other challenges while trying to fit into the norm.
Careers - They no longer follow the old norm of a linear path from college (education) to retirement. People are redefining success through creativity, remote work, and passion projects. It's now common for individuals to change jobs or even entire careers multiple times throughout their working lives.
Relationships - Even relationships and family structures have evolved beyond conventional norms, reflecting more freedom and individuality. Though not norms - what seems to hold true are - love, respect, understanding, caring, truth, and simply being there for someone else in our fragmented reality.
Marriage - It's not for everyone. Once is enough. Exhausting. The karma may just be to have children then it's done. The norm is becoming freedom and independence not co-dependence.
Education - There is formal education, and that which one receives just experiencing in the simulation. Many of my clients are not programmed to attend college, citing instances where higher education does not necessarily lead to an emotionally fulfilling or a financially stable life. They often weigh the rising costs and demanding workload against the uncertainty of not knowing what they truly want to do after graduation. For many, the traditional path no longer feels like the guaranteed road to success it once was - prompting them to explore alternative ways to learn, earn, grow, and define their own version of purpose and achievement.
Many are programmed with this mindset - I don't want to work at anything unless I'm passionate about it and can make a difference. This is all well and good if they have the financial means to support that choice. But for many, the pursuit of passion without a practical plan can lead to frustration and instability. Finding balance between purpose and practicality has become one of the great challenges today. An interesting norm that has grown from that premise is - parents supporting children after they are grown. Money from inheritance also shapes the future of young people.
Chapters: One can live in the 'Norm' in one chapter of their life, then, as per their programming - switch to something totally different in another. I see each decade in a person's life as a new chapter - distinct yet interconnected - filled with unique experiences, lessons, and growth. Just like chapters in a book, some are filled with excitement and discovery, others with challenges and reflection. Each chapter shapes who we are, adding depth to our story and preparing us for the chapters yet to come. Embracing this perspective allows us to welcome change, appreciate our journey, and find meaning in every phase of life.
Personally, I have always been told that one day I would step 'outside the box' and do something that would change the thinking of humanity. It's what I was told on the UFO at age 11 - though not in those exact words - nor how I would get there. This concept has been echoed by others I encountered along the way - people who couldn't quite articulate its true meaning but deeply felt its quintessential significance - speaking to a calling beyond ordinary quintessence. (I love words that begin with 'Q'. )
Like everyone who reads this blog - or resonates with similar narratives - I sense something more - something that at the time of this post cannot be put into words, but will manifest at the sunset of my journey.