By Vernon Hiller | Some of the most common phrases we use refer to what is considered "the norm." This article examines how we decide on what passes as the norm and why that matters.
This is thoughtful, compassionate, and timely. You challenge the lazy shorthand of “normal” and replace it with something more honest: a mosaic of differences, struggles, and strengths that we all carry. I appreciate how you name real traits of neurodiversity, anxiety, imposter syndrome (something I often struggle with), financial and age-related pressures, all without pathologizing people. That framing gives dignity. It invites readers to trade judgment for curiosity and makes “the norm” feel less like a ruler and more like a mirror.
Your conclusion lands well: what binds us isn’t sameness, it’s our shared work of finding a place to belong. Reframing struggle as common ground is disarming and hopeful. It opens space for empathy and disclosure, which is how communities get stronger. Thanks for reminding us that the most human thing about our imperfect, particular lives isn’t an exception to the norm. It is the norm.
Thank you so much for this Brian. You were able to articulate my thoughts better than my entire article - (finding the words is something I often struggle with). But struggle is the common ground we all share, and it is indeed the norm.
This is thoughtful, compassionate, and timely. You challenge the lazy shorthand of “normal” and replace it with something more honest: a mosaic of differences, struggles, and strengths that we all carry. I appreciate how you name real traits of neurodiversity, anxiety, imposter syndrome (something I often struggle with), financial and age-related pressures, all without pathologizing people. That framing gives dignity. It invites readers to trade judgment for curiosity and makes “the norm” feel less like a ruler and more like a mirror.
Your conclusion lands well: what binds us isn’t sameness, it’s our shared work of finding a place to belong. Reframing struggle as common ground is disarming and hopeful. It opens space for empathy and disclosure, which is how communities get stronger. Thanks for reminding us that the most human thing about our imperfect, particular lives isn’t an exception to the norm. It is the norm.
Thank you so much for this Brian. You were able to articulate my thoughts better than my entire article - (finding the words is something I often struggle with). But struggle is the common ground we all share, and it is indeed the norm.
You are too kind Vernon. You articulated your thoughts extremely well!!