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The idea of expectations seems very tame at first. It is a standard the collective hivemind adheres to and expects that nobody strays away from this norm because collective stability. That’s how societies work, right?

Well, the concept has a lot of nuance to it—nuance that isn’t all that positive as it can cause unforeseen damage to relationships, cause harm to oneself, or is just flat out toxic all around. All because someone is comfortable with pushing the boundaries for the sake of stability.

And when someone snaps and breaks, folks wonder why it happened. Because not everyone is cut out for this. And that’s fine. But some don’t see it that way.

Folks online recently tackled this issue with an AskReddit thread listing what things are not for everyone, but society acts like it is?

#1

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Social Media. Imagine being a 6th grader and having people think you’re weird if you don’t have an Instagram.

That s**t is poison. Wrecked our interpersonal skills. Ruined relationships. Perpetuated bullying into cyberspace when it used to end at the school day. Cemented embarrassment if you get recorded. The list goes on.

aSentientShadeOfBlue , Plann Report

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#2

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Religion. That’s fine if you’re a believer and it brings you peace or purpose or whatever, but it’s really not for everyone.

xraig88 , Leo mandala Report

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Shoes
Community Member
6 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I kinda get upset on how some people are forced to stay in a religion because the family said so

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#3

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” The whole “early bird gets the worm” mentality. Society tends to glorify being a morning person and waking up at the crack of dawn, but not everyone’s wired that way. Some of us are night owls who do our best work after midnight. So, let’s remember that not everyone thrives on the same schedule, and it’s okay to be a night-loving creature in a world that often praises the early risers. After all, owls are pretty cool too!

Stock_Strawberry2306 , Kampus Production Report

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Elio
Community Member
6 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm more of a night person and certain day time people just don't get it and think you're lazy if you don't wake up early.

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So, in the grand scheme of things, the thread did not receive a lot of upvotes, clocking in at just 3,300. What it did, however, do is generate quite a discussion. 4,900 comments later, we have loads of spot-on answers as well as talks about their respective themes and topics, giving context as to why it’s bad and why we would be better off without it.

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#4

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Having children.

Connect_Office8072:

I worked for the State’s attorney in the Neglect and Abuse Division and I swear, you should need a test before you can become a parent.

ServiceCall1986:

I’m a woman who has never had that “motherly urge” and I never plan on having kids. People don’t seem to understand that can happen. It’s always “you’ll change your mind once you find the right person”.

No, my right person will feel the same as me. People want to change me, but I’ve always felt this way.

InsightfulBlonde Report

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RavenTheCat
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Guys have thar same issue, im a dude i wont have kids. No i wont change my mind im gay

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#5

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Crop tops. Some of us still want the whole entire shirt damnit!

slpeach91 , Ketut Subiyanto Report

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TheBlueBitterfly
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why are plus size women's shirts shorter? I hate this!! I'd rather not show the world my pasty white doughbelly every time I raise my arm! I get that larger size = more fabric, so they're just trying to squeeze every last penny out of the fabric but come on.

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#6

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Romantic relationships. So many people can't fathom the fact that I'm perfectly happy being single. I have a solid support network from my friends and family and feel perfectly content without a romantic relationship. I'm always happy for my friends who end up in good, loving relationships, but it's not something I am interested in.

spaceturtle1138 , Jasmin Wedding Photography Report

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Thee8thsense
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Had an elderly female friend who had a very nice life, having retired from a career as an RN. People often asked her why she never married, and she would reply "Because I never met anyone I liked as much as myself".

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Answers revolved around social norms and expectations that everyone should be doing this or that. You know, things like hustle culture, social media, getting married and having kids, faith, and doing what is considered “normal” by the majority. But, at the end of the day, those are just norms and expectations. They shouldn’t be deciding factors just because... but peer pressure is a thing and it does some toxic things.

#7

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Having the most expensive extravagant wedding.

Thebazilla , alleksana Report

#8

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Alcohol - some people can't fathom that others can't be arsed to drink it, or choose a sober lifestyle after a bad experience.

zombsters , ELEVATE Report

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LadyRougarou
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had stomach surgery and since then I cannot tolerate alcohol. My family looks at me weird although I've explained why I can't drink a million times. It's weird how unacceptable it is that a person chooses not to drink 🙄

poisonivy0748 avatar
Poison Ivy/Boo
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Same here, although I was diagnosed as diabetic. I don't understand why my refusal to drink has anything to do with what they are doing. I don't mind people drinking around me or if someone wants to eat chocolate or crisps in front of me. Honestly, you do you and don't give me cràp for it.

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StrangeOne
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're not a loser for not drinking alcohol. People who say s**t like that are trying to deflect their own insecurities about drinking on to you.

lil-lauzie-10 avatar
The Doom Song
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I work in a bottleshop. I have seen many levels of chronic alcoholism. People are smart for choosing not to plunge down the rabbit hole

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Limey
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband is 25 years sober after alcoholism nearly killed him. The pressure to “come on just have one” is unacceptable. As a Brit living in the USA I find it that kind of pressure is worse in the UK, but either way people need a little situational awareness. If someone doesn't want to drink, leave it alone. They have their reasons.

lolat5082 avatar
Lori T Wisconsin
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Glad your husband is sober. Lost my stepson to alcohol several years ago; it's a hard and lonely fight. I support all who fight that battle.

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TheBlueBitterfly
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Or just get so bored with alcohol that it's such a chore. I have friends I'd love to hang out with but they can't not drink.

omboyganesh avatar
ॐBoyGanesh
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have no desire to drink. I’ll have a glass of wine paired with food when offered or maybe champagne at a celebration. I’ve never considered just going and buying a 6-pack or fine scotch. I never drink anything but water at clubs or bars. Alcohol just doesn’t interest me in any way. The assumption that I’m in recovery is a common reaction. Or that I’ve had bad experiences with alcohol. Neither is the case, but it IS so unfathomable that people often would rather believe I’m lying to them about issues with it than accept it’s just not my thing.

bluedogs1967 avatar
The Chronic Insomniac
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I learned in my early twenties that alchohol tastes terrible to me and I get 3 day hangovers. I'm 56 now and people still look at me like horns sprouted out of my head when I tell them I don't drink. Worse, are those that assume I don't drink because I used to abuse it. No. It tastes like diesel fuel to me and a few hours of feeling buzzed doesn't seem like enough of an incentive for actively believing I'm dying a slow death for the next 72 hours.

itsjustme223 avatar
Shane S
Community Member
6 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Alcohol is in the same class of carcinogen as tobacco. More research comes out all the time that no amount of alcohol is “safe”. Alcohol just has really good PR.

bemcath avatar
Cathy
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Could be in the same 'class' however smoking is really, really bad for you. Nevertheless, rest is absolutely true. No amount is safe and the standard should be not to drink.

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Jazmin
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've chosen a sober lifestyle and no one can tell me otherwise.

eds2 avatar
Doctor Strange
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"If you need booze and drugs to enjoy life to the fullest, then you're doing it wrong." - Robin Williams, one of my personal heroes.

jackburton_2 avatar
Jack Burton
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

French here, if you dont drink alcool absolutely everybody will assume you are sick or pregnant if a woman... Really a huge culture of drinking. It's ok for me but some people really struggle with being sober and judged...

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Appalachian Panda
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Like the stories here on BP where someone will say their relatives are enraged because they close to have a dry wedding. Like a wedding without booze is something totally unheard of. Is that really the only point of attending a wedding to some people - to go and get plastered?

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kazuha
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm only 15 and yet, whenever I go to social events there's always alcohol and the other kids in my grade look at me like I'm a constipated purple alien from Neptune when I refuse to drink. 😭

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Dorothy Stovall
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some people lack the enzyme to metabolize alcohol or are taking a medication that can't be mixed with drinking. People can be really weird about the fact that you're not drinking.

tabitha_1 avatar
Tabitha
Community Member
6 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have always had a touchy stomach. If I drink too much, I WILL throw up until I swear I can feel my shoes coming through. So, I can drink socially, I just know my limit and refuse to go past it. I will NOT drink more and risk being sick as a dog just to please you, you alcoholic a*****e.

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Sonja
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Or that there’s a gene that makes alcohol taste light lighter fluid. To me, all alcohol tastes utterly wretched. And in baked goods? “Oh, you can’t taste it!”. Yes. Yes I can, and it tastes horrible.

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longlivethequeen554
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't drink alcohol at all and people look at me like I'm weird. I choose not to drink, partly cos it doesn't mix well with my meds but also cos I hate it

arizonamary7 avatar
Ravens Mom
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't drink. I just don't like it. It's tough being out with friends or at a work event because everyone looks at me like I'm a weirdo because I don't want a drink and I get left out of conversations and ignored. I stopped going if a bar was involved because I kept getting so annoyed with everyone.

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CG
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Went sober to help with weight loss. Was between 240 to 250 pounds in July/August, but I'm down to 210 pounds now in late November. Cutting out the booze helped a lot, as well as a diet change/smaller portions, and more exercise.

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Sven Horlemann
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I got histamine intolerance in my early 50s, stopped drinking alcohol once I understood the impact - I mean, you literally feel it. Thankfully enough I am one of the persons no one likes messing with, so it is just silently accepted.

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Anna Chandler
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to drink alcohol. Too much. My body started revolting, and now even half a beer makes me sick. I don't miss it. Of course, I don't have any friends anymore either.

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Couriva
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You know it's bad when people are just offering a minor drinks and being confused when rejected.

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Teresa Spanics
Community Member
5 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I second that! The only time I will have a small amount of alcohol (two tablespoons per glass) is for New Year's Eve. One for Australia, one for New York, New York, U.S.A., and one for Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.

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Celtic Pirate Queen
Community Member
5 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I get pressed for WHY I don't want a drink I just say, "It makes me pregnant". Since I am obviously well past child bearing years the looks are priceless.

susanne avatar
Danish Susanne
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If it is nothing medical it is hard to have it accepted (sometimes not even if it is), but it should be a persons own choice, regardless if everybody else likes to drink alcohol.

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okpkpkp
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a choice. Take the morphine the doctors gave me or drink beer. When I did both, I regretted it. So I quit the beer and took the drugs. That was many years ago and I am off the morphine and the beer, still.

arrien avatar
Arrien
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The last bottle of wine I bought, lasted me a long time. I bought it for my Chicken Marsala recipe.

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Lene
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I was pregnant my dad and his wife would still ask me over and over again if I wanted alcohol. They could not understand that me saying "no thanks, I'm pregnant" was my answer AND my reasoning behind the answer. It was so weird to me! I mean... it was during EACH of my three pregnancies. But anyway.... it took the over 20 years to finally understand that I do not like to eat sea food. So perhaps they're just sorta slow? 🤔

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Kim Landfather
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never touch the stuff. It tastes ghastly and makes people do stupid things. Hell, I can do that without booze.

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Dorothy Stovall
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ex-husband used to make fun of me for not drinking while sailing (apparently a drinking culture). He was actually embarrassed because I would only nurse a single wine cooler all night and not get drunk. Alcohol tastes horrible to me and I physically don't tolerate it.

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lawrence Andrew
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not drinking was treated as a rebellion when I was a teen. My father insisted that I should at least hold a drink even if I would not drink it.

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Javelina Poppers
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like a mixed drink every now and then, vodka tonic preferably. Beer is a no-no for me, something in beer gives me migraine type headaches and I can feel one coming on before I even finish the first bottle or can. Don't know what causes it and don't care, I'm good with it.

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Michelle C
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yup. I probably drink maybe once a month on average. I can’t honestly say because it’s probably no more than 10 times a year, all things considered.

dotdot1955 avatar
Dorothy Reiser
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've never been able to tolerate alcohol, but I do like the taste of some like Kahlua. Getting drunk is totally alien to me.

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Carrie
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to drink heavily and regularly in my twenties. By my mid thirties it tapered way down and now (late forties) I drink very little and very rarely. Nothing triggered it, it just sort of happened and I don't miss it. I enjoyed my younger years and I'm enjoying my middle years... Without those pesky hangovers.

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DarkViolet
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I haven't had any alcohol in about 15 years. Don't want it, don't need it. There are so many more interesting--and safer--beverages out there, waiting to be imbibed. Besides, I'm not willing to risk a dangerous reaction because of the prescription meds I have to take.

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Bell-icose
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We should do more to teach people about the dangers of alcohol. I've been a bartender, a liquor rep and wine buyer for a wonderful restaurant. I still think we should council people from a young age about how dangerous it is. Let's keep working on meth too. But booze man. It's pretty freakin dangerous.

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Jessica SpeLangm
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I enjoy drinking alcoholic beverages, but I don't give a second thought to those that don't. If that's your choice, I'm very happy for you.

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Paul Brown
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I haven't drank since 2011. I found out I was allergic to alcohol. Every time I drink I break out in handcuffs.

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realenancy170
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get very ill if I drink alcohol. If someone gets pushy I tell them if I drink they'll end up having to call the police. This usually scares them off!

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Jared Robinson
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Alcohol is poison anyone offering you alcohol is literally trying to poison you.

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Biljana Malesevic
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't drink. Most alcohol does nothing for me, except making me dizzy and nauseous. It's like I am not wired so that I can enjoy drinking like others.

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gijeff58
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Since I have quit I have noticed how everything in social life revolves around drinking, everything. So many photos of people having fun always holding up glasses of alcohol

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L. Murphy
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I could care less if people drink or not, just don't stand around judging everyone else like some holier than thou asshat.

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Sonja
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Alcohol is poison. Not just in a certain amount, it is poisonous right from the start. It limits the growth of cells and actively impacts brain cells. Feeling tipsy is the result of the bodies reaction to alcohol poisoning. Not the medical team, the very real poisoning even the first drop starts becoming so strong that you feel how your body gets impacted. I think deep down people know that. They know this about all drugs. Because things that are not poisonous can't impact you in the way alcohol does. They know that it's bad and that drinking alcohol means consuming poison willingly and enjoying the effects. That's why they feel criticized when someone decides, for whatever reason, not to drink alcohol. And that's why they fight so much. I do drink alcohol occasionally. It is my decision. But I have the firm rule of no more than three drinks and only if I really want them. That's why I'm not giving anyone a hard time who doesn't want alcohol, I give them a mocktail.

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Brian bell
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You don't need a bad experience. You don't need to even think it is a bad thing. I have experienced this social awkwardness hundreds of times when I politely decline a drink. Yes, I do not understand the issue with me not being into drinking.

nizumi avatar
Nizumi
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've always found saying "Thanks, but I can't" works. Not "I don't". I can't. Maybe I'm in a 12 step program. Maybe I'm on medication. Maybe I have alcohol related trauma. There's no polite way to probe for answers. Potential embarrassment shuts it down.

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WonderWoman
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Advertisers would have you believe you can't watch sports, dates, and celebrations without having alcohol be the center attraction.

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keyboardtek
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, it is a poison to the human body. So humans are just consuming the minimum diluted dose of a poison that does not kill them immediately.

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Rens
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't drink alcohol anymore because of the medication I take. There are so many alcohol free wines, beers, ciders and spirits available now, and I'm happily exploring my options.

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Mimi M
Community Member
6 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm adding - beer. Specifically. Like beer is something that is not for everyone, but people tend to act like it is. Gimme a hard cider any day (or hard lemonade, or glass of Moscato) and I'm happy. I don't like beer, don't really like dry wines.

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BoredPossum
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In many countries there are way more non-alcoholic alternatives and people don't think it is a big deal if you don't drink.

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Poison Ivy/Boo
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You obviously don't live in Scotland lol. If drinking was an Olympic sport, we'd win gold every time 🤣

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RavenTheCat
Community Member
6 months ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I drink to sleep, usually something hard play a little tf2 and go to bed

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#9

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Team sports. There are other ways to learn teamwork and be part of a group, such as orchestra, marching band, scouting and a lot more.

DiligentAdvantage475 , jeffreyflin Report

You can kinda blame evolution for making social and societal pressure a thing. It’s natural for folks to strive for companionship that’s best suited for life in a given community. Societies are what has given humans an edge in survival on this planet for as long as they have. And so the very fabric of our existence depends on us sticking together in that sense. It is also that same fabric that causes pressure into staying within its norms. Sometimes, very aggressively.

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#10

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Hustle/grind/climb the corporate ladder culture. I just want to do what I'm good at and enjoy my life, not kill myself getting to the top.

pumpkinpretzel:

And also, (kinda on the flip side) the idea that everyone should start their own business and be their own boss.

Not everyone can/should/wants to…

Wishilikedhugs , Tima Miroshnichenko Report

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Sergio Bicerra
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I read a story about a guy who, everytime he was just about to be promoted to a management position, he asked to be left alone, cause he felt like being a coach instead of a player, and he loved to play.

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#11

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Talking to toxic family members.

Magazinegurl , Andrea Piacquadio Report

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Sahitya Madhavan
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So true. I'm expected to be all normal with my abusive sibling. 'After all, he's your elder brother. You are family.' It's frustrating.

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#12

Christmas. I really don’t like Christmas, but people look at me like I have two heads if I say that out loud, like I’m not allowed to not like Christmas. Not a religious reason, I just find the holiday to be too intrusive. It insists upon itself, and everywhere you turn, Christmas gets jammed in your face, down your throat, up your a*s. It’s October 29 and my neighbor just put his Christmas lights up. They won’t come down until the end of June. Is eight months of Christmas really necessary?

Muttandcheese Report

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Bob Brooce
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hate starting the Christmas season at the beginning of October, or even after Halloween, but I don't find it intrusive. That said, I do hate that so many of the people who make the biggest deal over Christmas are the same morons that b***h about atheists and the LGBTQ community "shoving their lifestyle in our faces" or claim they're being persecuted because some people who know that a lot of people aren't christians use inclusive greetings during the holiday season.

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And just like anything that’s taken to an extreme, society too can take expectations and norms to a degree where it starts marginalizing people. And those who find themselves stuck between their own ideas and desires, and the opinion of society can end up in a spiral of stress and inadequacy. And all of this is very ironic because communities form to ensure stability and we now have folks who are destabilizing it.

#13

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Driving. Maneuvering thousands of pounds of metal at speeds that can easily kill you and other people, yet we encourage people to do it before they can vote or drink or live alone, and at least in North America you’re seen as some sort of immature freak if you can’t or don’t want to.

Illustrious_Town_163 , Norma Mortenson Report

#14

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” A 9-5 job. I'm a bartender/server and a natural night owl. I honestly think that's why I even prefer the service industry because I just feel more normal at night lol. I have my degree and did the 9-5 for about 2 years but everyone's energy all day kinda makes me nauseous 🥲 But the relentless judgment for being on a different schedule than the rest of society is constant.

ServerAgent88 , https://www.pexels.com/photo/bartender-pouring-drink-into-glass-of-ice-4818176/ Report

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BrownTabby
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6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The things people attach “morality” to never fails to blow my mind. I know y’all would riot if we didn’t have night staff doing their jobs but you’re gonna turn around and look down on them? Yeah nah, bro.

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#15

Guns, well at least in US society.

Jengus_Roundstone Report

In turn, social pressures often encourage people to fit in with those around them. Again, this circles back to safety and security within a given community, the desire to change ourselves in order to stay connected with people for the greater good, i.e. survival. And while it can be a positive change, it can also turn out to be toxic as well.

#16

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Sex. Nobody should be shamed for having sex or not having sex.

onemanmelee:

Similarly, hookup culture. Not everyone glorifies the idea of "anytime with anyone, anywhere."

Minute-Shoulder-1782 , Ketut Subiyanto Report

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DeeDee M
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6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That sounds like a recipe for alot of bad sex...and possible STI's.

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#17

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Being extroverted and constantly craving social interactions.

Cute-Landscape7610:

this. i love being at HOME. i love my small circle of close relationships - those are the people that can be recharging for me.

i do not crave being in loud, overpopulated environments or making small talk with a bunch of strangers or distant acquaintances that i have no bond with. even being around extremely social, extroverted people that i do love dearly (my almost in laws) gets exhausting, because they nearly always have their family friends over. i just could never.

lehmx , Matheus Bertelli Report

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madeleine f
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Introvert people often get judged for being boring but I found conversations with the least loud person in a big group often is the most rewarding. The ones that shouts can be so obnoxious and exhausting being around.

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#18

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Marriage.

Im_100percent_human:

I used to believe that Marriage was a societal invention that really did not serve an important purpose. I decided at one point that I never wanted to get married. My views have evolved on this as I have aged. While I still believe that marriage, as an institution, is a societal invention, but it does serve an important purpose. It provides a default legal contract that defines the sharing of property and responsibilities. While this may sound trivial, it is not. This is particularly important for couples as they age, become sick, and die. It really defines how another person can make decisions on your behalf and benefit from a shared life. If you are to couple with another person, you should marry at some point.... You really don't need to have a wedding or even tell anyone. Just do it for the sake of your partner.

Louis-grabbing-pills , Jeremy Wong Report

And, as it so happens, these evolutionary processes also lead to the fact that we’re hard-wired to respond to social pressures—to a degree where changes can quite literally be detected in the brain.

Many look at others for guidance. It’s a thing called social proof whereby a community essentially determines what’s good and what’s not based on how much they approve of it or partake in it. A certain kind of popularity.

#19

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Interest in sports.

grondfoehammer , Andrea Piacquadio Report

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Helena
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nothing more irritating than sports being intertwined with our schools and colleges.

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#20

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” "Sucess" in our modern way of thing about it. Not everyone wants or can handle being extremely wealthy, famous, or powerful. Some of us just want our slice of a good life and live it.

Major-Language-2787 , Karolina Grabowska Report

#21

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” 40 hour work week.

xMadxScientistx:

I don't honestly think it's for anybody. People say there are a bunch of psychopaths out there who just love working every waking moment, but I kind of think they just tell people they feel that way to look like they're virtuous.

Ambitious_Surround36 , Christina Morillo Report

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Stardust she/her
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the news in my country, someone said that us youngsters should work 70 hours a week if we want our country to get ahead

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However, there has to be a fine balance between being all in or all out when it comes to functioning in society. Setting boundaries and understanding what you as an individual needs is crucial in maintaining personal health. Turning into an absolute people-pleaser can lead to harmful relationships which in turn have zero benefit for the individual, all the while turning against society isn’t wise either as it’s not all bad.

#22

Sexually provocative imagery on everything, being seen by kids. We steep in it all our lives

doesanyonehaveweed Report

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David
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of the things I like about Ghibli movies is they are not crammed full of sexual innuendo and double entendres. Some of the western studios seem to think you can't make a viable kids' movie without tossing in a lot of jokes that only (you hope) the adults will get. We watched a lot of both but sometimes it was awkward when the adults / older grandkids laugh at something and the little ones want an explanation.

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#23

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” College.

xSmittyxCorex:

I don’t know about society at large, but media sure acts like it. I swear almost every show and movie ever it’s assumed the entire cast went to college. And not a local college either, they left home, stayed in a dorm, and somehow in between all the studying, a lot of partying and weed was involved. And if it involves highschoolers, its assumed they’re going to go, and if not, it’s cause they’re the stupid/trouble-making one.

DarkRose_92 , Emily Ranquist Report

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E2U&U2
Community Member
6 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hate to say it, but an undergraduate degree is the equivalent of a high school diploma decades ago. Some employers view it as a minimum qualification to consider a resume or application. I have a BA but hold a position that usually needs a Ph.D. I got here by having common sense, initiative, a strong work ethic, and the trust of my superiors. Those qualities aren't rewarded the same anymore.

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#24

Capitalism?


I mean, it literally is only for the capitalists. Everyone else gets to labor, or die, or both...

Poet_of_Legends Report

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BrownTabby
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Every day I rue the phenomenon LBJ pointed out: “give a man someone to look down on and he’ll empty his pockets for you”. That’s a massive part of why so many poor and middle class people vote against their best interests.

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Hence, it’s important to learn how to express individuality, but all the while understanding how you can help a society and how a society can help you.

The first part can manifest in many ways: wear unique clothes, don’t be ashamed to embrace what you enjoy near others, speak your mind, that sort of thing. In turn, losing the trying to fit in mentality might save you a lot of stress along the way.

#25

Probably gonna get crucified for this but...

Rap/hip hop or any type of music in that style... including a lot of this new Bro Country stuff.

*goes and hides under the table now...*

One_Evil_Monkey Report

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Jeff White
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just don't assume that if it's not for you, it should not be for anybody.

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#26

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Credit cards.

DEVILDORIGHT:

Living in and with debt is just lunacy to me. What sense does it make to live your entire life in debt to a corporation? None. If I cannot afford to pay for a thing outright, I don't need it. "Oh but a credit card/debt, allows you to have what you want." NO. It allows the bank to come take your shit and throw you to the wolves and out on the street should you fail to pay the debt incurred.

gottarunfast1 , Anete Lusina Report

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David
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, I see one of your problems right there. You assume that having a credit card = buying things you can't afford. I have credit cards. I pay them off in full every month. I get cash back so the net effect is they pay me to use them. It also means I have a built in proof of purchase, I am carrying less cash on me / lose less if I lose my wallet. And in many situations I get longer warranties. Costco electronics purchased on their visa get an extra 2 years on the manufacturer's warranty. When my camera was stolen in the Philippines, AMEX replaced it for free because it was purchased on their credit card and I was traveling. It is also a form of insurance. I do not always have enough cash in my wallet to cover an emergency tow or tire replacement. TLDR: CCs are a good thing if you use them wisely.

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#27

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Being connected ALL the time: Wifi, TV, streaming.

Upstairs-Radish1816:

I was in my 50's when my son gave me his old smart phone. He couldn't understand how I could leave the house without it. I kept telling him I've gone this long without one I couldn't see the need to have a phone all the time.

Ob1cannobody , Andrea Piacquadio Report

But societies are necessary, for survival, of course, but let’s put it into perspective: society has enough power to push for changes and public opinion that might just keep you safe, say, in a pandemic where everyone wears a mask, and the one not wearing one would be pressured, if not mandated, into it so that it wouldn’t stir any more trouble. But that works for everyone’s benefit if the focus is for the benefit of everyone, and not motivated by self interest. So that’s something to think about.

#28

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Owning a pet.

Tim0281:

I agree. I'd love to have a dog, but I'm a childless bachelor that lives in a second floor apartment. I don't have the time or space to properly take care of a dog. It wouldn't be fair to the dog if I got one.

SydneyTheCalico , Mikayla Meeker Report

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StrangeOne
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've lived with a dog, I've owned a dog from a puppy to a year old. They don't train that easily and require a lot of attention. Things get destroyed, your house starts smelling like dog pee from accidents, and you have to puppy/dog proof your home like you would with a toddler.

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#29

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” The idea that in order to be part of this world, you have to focus on events that don't concern you. We're expected to be 'aware' of conflicts all over the world, poverty, crime, social problems and all other kinds of horrible things that happen daily but don't concern us. This leads to constant panic and stress, caused by events and situations that aren't in our sphere of influence but we're expected to be aware of them. There's almost no way to live a stable life when we're constantly battered over the head with events happening in other parts of the world, but if we ignore them, we're horrible people.

anon , Redrec ©️ Report

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Thee8thsense
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In this case, as in most on this list, a viable solution is to simply not care what others think of you. Really. Personally, it came as I got older, but it feels fantastic.

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So, what are your thoughts on any of this? Throw in your two cents and share stories in the comment section below.

And once you’re done with that, why not peep at this article about things that seem to have been normalized, yet they are anything but normal due to their toxic, immoral or just flat out wrong nature.

#31

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Homeownership. Some people just don't have the budgeting skills, willingness, time and knowledge to do maintenance, or the discipline necessary for homeownership.

sconnie64 , Scott Webb Report

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Lauren S
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6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think homeownership should be in this list. But I disagree with some of their reasoning. Some people don’t come from backgrounds or circumstances that afford them the luxury of saving for a home. Or when they are financially ready the timing is poor with an inflated market and high interest rates making homeownership not a financially responsible (or feasibility) decision. Others I’m sure don’t want the responsibility of maintenance or costs that come with it and that part of what op said is true. But I disagree with budgeting skills or discipline, that’s not why most people can’t buy houses.

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#33

Veganism.

Tiggeribby Report

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RavenTheCat
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Theres nothing wrong with veganism itself its the *peta* culture that gives it a bad rep in my opinion, maybe im dumb

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#34

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Based on recent unpopular opinion posts, Halloween costume parties for adults. Every time someone says they don't like them, they're met with "you just don't like fun" comments.

BLUFALCON78 , Black Iris Visuals Report

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RavenTheCat
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is another example of to each their own. I understand both sides i myself just love halloween

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#35

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Desk jobs. All through school they preached that we were failures if we were anything less than doctors, lawyers, middle management, etc. So we all trained for those things and did really well. Now there aren't enough jobs to go around in those fields. Now it's just "your degrees are useless! Go work fast food! You failed!"

Really getting tired of the out of touch 50+ crowd ruining people's lives.

CodenameJinn , Antoni Shkraba Report

#36

Cohabiting with an intimate partner.

Bimblelina Report

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Poppy
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I honestly couldn't live with a partner. I have lived alone for so long and I have ADHD and if my routine is messed with by having someone live with me, I'd have a meltdown. I'd be quite happy to have a loving and committed partnership and not live with them.

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#37

Taking dogs everywhere. It's become ridiculous in the UK now with people taking them on shopping trips to big stores, but worse still, restaurants are now allowing dogs in eating areas. It's gross ...

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S M
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Disagree. A well-behaved dog in a restaurant is often less “gross” than many adults, let alone children.

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#38

40 People Get Blatantly Honest About “What Is Not For Everyone, But Society Acts Like It Is?” Monogamy *and* polyamory. The main reason people think polyamory is bad is because non-polyamorous people attempt it and inevitably fail at it because they think polyamory is something you can just switch on and off and “try out”. At the same time, society acts like monogamy should be the standard for everyone, when it’s just not suited to everyone.

early_onset_villainy , cottonbro studio Report

#39

Math teacher here: Algebra. EDIT: I'm not saying "Mathematics" I'm saying "Algebra".

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Bob Brooce
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tell us you're a lousy math teacher without telling us you're lousy math teacher. Very few people need to understand quadratic equations, but some basic algebra is part of everyday life for a lot of people, even if they don't realize it. Learning algebra is also part to the process of learning to think.

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#40

Some sort of political opinion.

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Emily Ward
Community Member
6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What I'm tired of is people bashing other people saying they must be a trump person etc etc even when the conversation has nothing to do with politics or anything related to it. It's like a go to now for people to try and win an argument.

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