My Conversation with the Box Merchant
Imagine a Box Merchant. They’re a very friendly person selling boxes.
Our conversation goes like this.
They present to me two nicely made large boxes.
“Most people fit either this blue box or this red box.”
“Thanks, but I don’t want to be put in a box.”
They proceed to pull out some really intrecately-carved small boxes, with beautiful colours and nice engraving.
“We also have these. There really is a box for everyone!”
I look at all the colourful boxes and I don’t want to insult the Box Merchant or the people who find happiness by buying one or several of these. But ultimately I go:
“Thanks a lot. But I really don’t want to be put into boxes.”
The Box Merchant thinks for a while, then pulls out another box, mostly blank.
“I guess this one is for people who don’t like boxes.”
Bemused, I refrain.
“These are all nice boxes, but really, I don’t want to be put in one.”
The Box Merchant, now visibly confused, explains to me:
“People are going to put you in a box anyway. Best to choose your favourite.”
I think for a while and then I go:
“No. I will not aide people in putting a box around me. I will not give them any directive. If to be put in a box is unavoidable, so be it. I will not be compliant.”
