Punk is Dead, but What of Lemmings

If you know anything about me, you will be well aware that “normal” is probably the last descriptor you would use. And I’m cool with that.

The truth is, I’ve never fit into a mold. There was a time that I tried. But in all honesty, we were always too poor for me to ever fit in with the “cool kids”. And quite honestly, I find that to be the shame of our society. Having to wear the right clothes, having the right toys and gadgets. This is the modern cast system. If you can afford these things, you’re in. If not, kiss the ring you peasant.

In junior high, something clicked. I came to the realization that I didn’t want to be a lemming. I didn’t want to be anything but who I was. So I stopped trying to be “cool”. My wardrobe consisted of amazing finds I got at Goodwill and I stopped thinking in terms of categories. I wasn’t a jock, druggie, skater, prep, etc. I was simply me. If I wore something, it was because I liked it. I didn’t give a shit what others thought.

This was my emancipation. I stopped judging others and stopped judging myself. I think autonomy is the way to be truly content. If you like something, wear it. If you like a song, sing it. If you like a dance move, fucking strut that shit!

Some define this lifestyle as “punk” and yet, that has simply become another label to define a style. Don’t get me wrong, our brains need to categorize in order to function efficiently so I’m not saying do away with all labels. But, here’s what I am saying. You don’t have to chain yourself to any specific label. If you create, know that someone will always be there to tell you you’re not good enough. They are liars. You are you and that’s fucking amazing! Own that shit! The only way to truly fight mob mentality is to realize that you are not of the mob. You are you, and there is no one else who could take your place. So just do that thing. Be who you are. Dance when you’re drunk. Get excited about the things that make your heart skip. Don’t let anyone beat the individuality out of you. Normal is a facade. We are not lemmings. Life is not the cliff. Punk is not dead.