Trail of Thought

More philosophy this week!

I read a friend of mine's statement this week about their fascination of whether they had been inspiration for any literature. Such a simple sporadic thought, yet it influenced quite a few questions in my head. First, one must live quite an interesting life to ponder whether they are profound enough to inspire entire pieces of writing. Then again, it seems to be the most anonymous of people that lead to the masterpieces of the modern era we are accustomed to. Perhaps this is a useless argument in itself. Regardless, the second question that surfaced was what made this person want to inspire literary masterpieces. Is the want to inspire any less different than the unintentional inspiration? Does it negate the actual effect of inspiration to consciously decide to influence?

No, of course not!

Influence comes through some of the most unlikely spots. I mean, even writing this blog right now, I have been enticed within the desire to become an inspiration for what is an unknown purpose (at least to myself). Perhaps my friend may never realize that they have influenced writing, because often the inspiration given off by others latches on to individuals randomly and generally unknowingly to the source, producing a trail of endless thought behind them. What intrigues me about this though is that behind the wish to be an inspiration lies someone who is absolutely capable of inspiring some of the most creative of poetry, the most elegant of novels, and yet this side is often exposed. Why willingly choose to hide the very element you wish to pollinate amongst the public?

I mean, you could write books on this person.

This got me thinking even further. Does humanity consciously make the decision to hide the alter ego within each of us? Earnestly and honestly, every single one of us has at least one contrast between what will be considered a "public" personality. What is it that makes us bury the other side or decide to selectively show it? Do we fear judgement of others? What I find peculiar is that humans are extremely critical of themselves, even through criticism of absolute strangers. What we are doing is preventing this inspiration that potentially lies within our separate personalities to be spread through our own fear of judgement by those who are least important.

I don't get that.

It's a cliche standard in today's society to encourage free expression, "express yourself" and what not. But you know what? This cliche is correct. Expression, a differentiation from the societal norm, is what influences others to think outside of the box. This difference, perhaps subconsciously, causes a response within ourselves in reflection to how we act. Are we simply another brick in the wall compared to this flaring ball of neon yellow? By leaving this trail, others are indirectly inspired and leave this giant ripple of inspiration until even the original source is influenced by another individual who was influenced by the original source in the first place. Confusing? Yeah, a little. But really, the message is clear in itself:

Be the inspiration.