Customs and society are the true face behind the mask

In our day-to-day lives, we often find ourselves wearing masks. These masks may not be physical but rather metaphorical, crafted to hide our true selves from the world. But have you ever wondered what lies beyond these masks? Is it our genuine selves or a reflection of the society and we belong to? The answer lies in the undeniable influence of customs and society on our behavior and beliefs.

Every society is built on a foundation of customs that govern how its members should act and behave. These customs dictate everything from the way we greet each other to how we mourn the loss of a loved one. They act as a set of unwritten rules that guide our interactions and help maintain order. These customs are deeply ingrained in us from an early age, shaping our attitudes, values, and perceptions of the world.

As we grow up, we internalize these customs and begin to wear masks that conform to societal norms. We learn to smile when we feel sad, pretend to understand when we are confused, and suppress our desires or opinions to fit in. These masks become a part of who we are, molding our identity in line with societal expectations.

But why do we feel compelled to wear these masks? The answer lies in the fear of rejection and social alienation. Humans are fundamentally social beings, and our survival has always depended on being accepted by our community. To avoid being ostracized, we conform to the customs and norms of our society, thereby hiding our true selves behind the mask.

However, this conformity often comes at a cost. We sacrifice our individuality, creativity, and freedom of expression in order to fit in. The masks we wear prevent us from fully embracing our authentic selves, leading to a sense of disconnection and dissatisfaction. We become trapped in a cycle of conformity, constantly seeking validation and acceptance from others.

Moreover, customs and society have a profound impact on shaping our beliefs and attitudes. They influence our perception of right and wrong, what is considered morally acceptable, and even our prejudices. Our customs can perpetuate discriminatory practices and reinforce societal injustices, feeding into a cycle of systemic bias and discrimination.

One example of this is the cultural practice of arranged marriages in some societies. While it may be customary in these cultures, it can often lead to the oppression of women and restrict their freedom of choice. These customs are deeply ingrained, making it difficult to challenge or question their validity.

What lies beyond the masks we wear is a complex interplay between our individuality and the society we inhabit. We are shaped by our customs and society, but we also have the power to challenge and redefine them. It is essential to recognize the impact of society on our behavior and beliefs, but equally important to question and challenge these customs when they hinder personal growth, equality, and justice.

In conclusion, customs and society play a pivotal role in shaping who we are and the masks we wear. They provide us with a set of rules and norms that guide our behavior and influence our beliefs. However, it is crucial to remember that these customs are not inherently right or wrong; they are products of our collective history and evolution. By understanding the true face behind the mask, we can strive for a balance between societal expectations and our authentic selves, fostering a society that values individuality, tolerance, and progress.