Healing and Hypnotherapy Volume 1 Issue 4, (I October 2016) | Page 9

The Rebel in Us

(The writer gives discourse on "Srimad Bhagvad Geeta" to the corporate houses and a trained Clinical Hypnotherapist)

The growth of civilization has encouraged the growth of social institutions that
encourage order and structure amongst human beings. The very purpose of most of
these institutions – marriage, family, community, society, religion, etc. is to promote
conformity. And yet it is unrestrained creativity and ‘thinking outside the box’ that
has pushed the boundaries of human thought and led to the progress of civilization,
technology and essentially, life as we know it today.
But when we say rebel we do not mean exhibitionist or attention grabber, we mean a
creative person with his/her own ideas.
Non-conformists or rebels are not understood by society. Starting from their very
families, they face conflict, ignorance and narrow mindedness. Why is this? As a result
of centuries of conditioning, most people do not question belief systems and established
ideas or theories; when they encounter thoughts outside their purview, they either run
away from it, or just rationalize it. Rebels are the ones who question the philosophy of
others. And while pondering over any issue they come up with their own original ideas.
Rebels think differently from others and ask different questions. As rebel we question
ourselves, our own consciousness and how we live our lives. We question authority or
reject beliefs, attitudes, or societal mindsets that do not feel right. As children we ask
questions about everything around us and question the answers as well. But often
parents and teachers do not have time for such questions, or do not have answers to
them. The result? Children are asked to shut up and listen. They are told to curb their
curiosity and learn what is stated in books. Educational scenario largely encourages a
herd mentality leaving little room for an individual to grow at his or her own pace and
scientific curiosity. But in every era tribe grows on.
Rebels that survive the education system are the lucky ones, either enlightened by
parents or teachers who could match their intellectual abilities and satiate their
curiosity.
But as we continue our life’s journey, we get bogged down by the day to day demands
of life – whether it be work or family. Both the personal and professional worlds