Your Own Drummer

This week, I had experiences with various unique people. Most were recovering from either the disease of alcoholism or from a hard drug addiction. What struck me was how uniquely different each one was from another and how each of them had stories about different histories of family and types of drugs they used prior to coming into recovery. 

I was reminded of a quote from Henry David Thoreau: 

 "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away." 

Here, Thoreau encourages individuality and self-expression. He suggests that if someone does not conform to society’s expectations or follow the same path as others, it may be because they are guided by their own unique inner calling or vision. Rather than forcing them to conform, we should respect their personal journey and allow them to follow the “music” that resonates with them, no matter how unconventional or distant it may seem. It is a celebration of independence, self-trust, and authenticity. 

  The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous echoes this sentiment: 

 "We are average Americans. All sections of this country and many of its occupations are represented, as well as many political, economic, social, and religious backgrounds. We are people who normally would not mix. But there exists among us a fellowship, a friendliness, and an understanding which is indescribably wonderful."-- Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, Chapter 2, There Is a Solution 

 This powerful statement highlights how people from all walks of life can find unity in a shared purpose, despite their different backgrounds. My point is further supported by the writings of philosophers and Theologians: 

1. Aristotle wrote: "It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." 

1. Marcus Aurelius observed: "Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth."  

1. Revelation 7:9-10, John comments on the possibility of a diverse world: "After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb..." 

1.  Elder Quentin L. Cook of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, "Unity and diversity are not opposites. We can achieve greater unity as we foster an atmosphere of inclusion and respect for diversity."  

       These words remind us that embracing different perspectives and respecting diversity of thought is a sign of wisdom and growth.   All around us are examples of the value of individual opinion and lifestyles. It seems a shame not to consider the advantages of independent thought. Consider the blessings of our diversity in art, music, and creative genius—this country thrives in every aspect of life because of it.   

         In our communities, recovery groups, and society at large, we thrive when we recognize that unity does not require sameness. Instead, it flourishes when we respect and celebrate the uniqueness of each individual. By embracing our differences, we enrich our collective experience, allowing each of us to follow the rhythm of our own drummer while still marching forward together. 

Good Morning