The Incredible Odds of Being You
“Become who you are. Do what only you can do. Be the master and sculptor of yourself. ”
Have you ever stopped to ponder the miraculous journey that led to your existence?
Have you ever contemplated the profound coincidences and intricate pattern that defines who you are?
Let's take a moment to dive into the awe-inspiring odds that brought you into this world and explore the beauty of your individuality.
The odds of your birth are a staggering one in 400 trillion, as self-help author Mel Robbins revealed in her 2011 Tedx Talk. Let that sink in for a moment.
The circumstances, the timing, and the countless factors that culminated in you being here are beyond astronomical. It's like winning the cosmic lottery – a lottery that goes beyond monetary gain, one that grants you the incredible privilege of experiencing life itself.
But it's not just the physical aspects that define you. It's the sum of your experiences, the moments that have etched themselves into the fabric of your being. Think about the family you were born into – a dynamic blend of personalities and histories that have profoundly influenced who you've become. As the saying goes, "You can't choose your family." However, you can choose how you let these connections shape your perspective and choices.
Every detail of your existence has been carefully woven together by the threads of chance, fate, and circumstance. From the place you were born to the unique features that make up your physical appearance, each aspect is a testament to the incredible journey you've undertaken. Philosophical theories such as determinism and existentialism provide insight into the complex interplay of fate and individual agency that shape our lives.
This is what determinism is all about. Determinism is a philosophical concept that suggests all events, including human actions, are determined by previous events and natural laws. In other words, our choices and actions are not entirely free; they are the result of a chain of causation that began long before we were born. This theory challenges the notion of complete personal agency and free will.
From the perspective of determinism, the circumstances that led to our birth, our physical appearance, and the family we were born into were set in motion by a series of causes beyond our control. This theory doesn't necessarily negate the significance of individual experiences but emphasizes that those experiences are influenced by a web of interconnected events.
Or we can also give an explanation of life through existentialism, with fundamental precursors such as Friedrich Nietzsche. Existentialism, on the other hand, takes a different stance by highlighting the significance of individual agency and the responsibility we hold for our choices. This philosophical approach asserts that individuals are not simply products of their circumstances; they have the power to define themselves through their actions and choices, regardless of external factors.
Existentialism encourages us to embrace the uncertainty of existence and to create meaning in a world that might seem devoid of inherent purpose. This perspective resonates with the idea that our uniqueness stems not just from external factors like birth circumstances but also from the choices we make in response to those circumstances.
These two philosophical theories may appear contradictory, but they intersect in a way that offers a nuanced view of human existence. While determinism acknowledges the influence of external factors on our lives, existentialism celebrates our capacity to make choices that shape our own paths. This interplay underscores that life is a blend of forces beyond our control and the freedom we possess to shape our narratives.
So, how do these theories relate to the odds of our existence?
The realization that the odds of being born are astronomically small aligns with the deterministic viewpoint – the culmination of countless factors beyond our control. However, our response to this realization, the meaning we derive from it, and the choices we make moving forward align more with existentialism – the recognition of our agency in the face of vast odds.
In essence, the philosophical interplay of determinism and existentialism encourages us to appreciate the complexity of our existence. It reminds us that while we may not have chosen the circumstances of our birth, we possess the incredible power to shape our journey, find purpose, and celebrate the unique collection of experiences that define us.
Your Unrepeatable Story
I would like to explore this topic in more depth by sharing a personal journey that underscores the power of embracing one's uniqueness. In a world that often tries to fit us into molds and labels, it's essential to celebrate our individuality and the experiences that have shaped us into the strong, confident beings we are today.
I've always been a firm believer in embracing every aspect of myself, regardless of how it might differ from the norm. Throughout my life, I've encountered moments where people would cast judgment or criticism based on my appearance or behavior. From being deemed "too nerdy" in my early years to being labeled "too distant", “too shy”, “too serious”, “too proper”, or "too sappy" as I grew older, I've heard it all. However, the beauty of my journey lies not in these criticisms themselves, but in my response to them.
Rather than letting these judgments bring me down, I've developed a unique ability to simply shrug them off. It's as though I've internalized the understanding that these critiques are not a reflection of my worth or character. Instead, they are reflections of societal expectations and norms that don't define me. This perspective has allowed me to view these comments as opportunities for growth, as reminders of my strength, and invitations to further embrace my individuality.
In fact, these instances of criticism have been some of the most impactful teachers in my journey towards self-love and acceptance. Instead of allowing them to chip away at my confidence, they've fortified my sense of self. They've shown me that I am not defined by the judgments of others, but by the love and appreciation I hold for myself. As the saying goes, "What others think of me is none of my business."
Remember those moments when you felt out of place, when you were labeled as "too" something – too different, too unconventional, too quiet, too outspoken? These labels, however hurtful they may have felt, are the building blocks of your uniqueness. What once seemed like weaknesses can now be harnessed as your superpowers. Your differences set you apart, making you an irreplaceable presence in the world.
Accepting our individuality can be challenging in a society that often pressures us to conform. But why should we strive for sameness when our differences are what make us shine? You are not a template stamped out in an assembly line; you are a masterpiece shaped by a universe of possibilities.
Through these experiences, I've come to realize that the very traits people have criticized are the ones that have shaped my unique outlook on life. They've equipped me with empathy, resilience, and a profound understanding of the power of self-love. Instead of conforming to the expectations of others, I've chosen to celebrate my quirks, to wear them as badges of honor that signify the authenticity of my being.
As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for those who've attempted to cast me in a negative light. Their actions inadvertently propelled me on a path of unwavering self-love. I've learned that true power lies in accepting ourselves fully, even when the world might not understand or approve. Through my journey, I've cultivated high self-esteem that emanates from a place of self-assurance and inner strength.
And that's a gift I want to share with you. I want you to know that you are not alone in your journey of self-discovery. Embracing your uniqueness might not always be easy, but it is undeniably worth it. Those parts of you that you once considered flaws or peculiarities, they are the very threads that weave the masterpiece of your life. They are the ingredients that make you irreplaceable, extraordinary, and wholly unique.
Don't be afraid to embrace the quirks that make you unique. Be thankful for the memories that have woven the tapestry of your life. Embrace the odds that have brought you here, against all cosmic probabilities.
So, the next time someone attempts to label you or fit you into a box, remember that you have the power to rise above their perceptions. Embrace your journey with pride and open arms. Celebrate every experience, every quirk, every difference that has contributed to the mosaic of your existence. Your existence is not a fluke; it's a testament to the extraordinary nature of life itself. You are a one-in-400-trillion phenomenon, and the world is a richer place with your unique presence. You are here for a reason beyond your comprehension, a reason that extends far beyond your individual self.
Sincerely,
Victoria.
