Swimming Against the Tide: Nonconformity in USA

The spirit of American innovation often finds itself swimming against the tide, a concept vividly embodied by figures like Henry David Thoreau, whose act of retreating to Walden Pond represented a powerful rejection of societal norms. This courageous stance of rejecting the status quo is further echoed in the groundbreaking work of organizations such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), which relentlessly champions digital rights, often challenging established legal precedents. The very fabric of Silicon Valley, with its ethos of disruptive technologies, thrives on individuals and companies daring to navigate uncharted waters, inevitably swimming against the tide of conventional business practices. The pursuit of civil rights, exemplified by the historic marches across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, demonstrates the enduring power of collective action, where determined individuals challenged systemic injustice, choosing to swim against the tide of deeply entrenched prejudice.

The Courage to Question: Embracing Dissent and Nonconformity

Dissent and nonconformity. These aren't just abstract concepts relegated to dusty history books. They are the lifeblood of progress, the engine of justice, and the very soul of a vibrant, evolving society.

To dissent is to dare to disagree. To refuse to blindly accept. It's the courageous act of questioning the status quo, challenging established norms, and speaking truth to power, even when that truth is unpopular.

Nonconformity, its close cousin, is the conscious choice to live outside the rigid confines of societal expectations. It's the freedom to be authentic, to march to the beat of one's own drum, and to resist the pressure to conform for conformity's sake.

But why are these qualities so crucial? Why should we actively cultivate dissent and celebrate nonconformity?

The Unease of Disagreement

Let's be honest: dissent isn't always comfortable. It can be unsettling. It can create friction. It can even lead to ostracism. Voicing dissenting opinions often invites criticism, ridicule, and sometimes even persecution. It requires inner strength to stand one's ground when the world seems determined to push you back into the fold.

And nonconformity? It's often met with suspicion, misunderstanding, and even outright hostility. Society, in its quest for order and predictability, tends to frown upon those who deviate from the norm. To be different is to be vulnerable.

The Price of Progress

Despite these challenges, the pursuit of a more just and equitable world demands that we embrace dissent and nonconformity. Because it is through these very qualities that progress is born.

Think about it: every major advancement in human history, every step towards a more enlightened society, has been the result of someone daring to question the way things were. Someone challenging the prevailing wisdom. Someone refusing to accept injustice as the inevitable order of things.

From the abolition of slavery to the fight for women's suffrage, from the Civil Rights Movement to the struggle for LGBTQ+ equality, dissent and nonconformity have been the driving forces behind every positive social change.

A Better World is Possible

Embracing dissent and nonconformity isn't just about challenging what's wrong. It's also about envisioning what could be right. It's about fostering a culture of critical thinking, open dialogue, and intellectual curiosity. It's about creating a society where diverse perspectives are not only tolerated but celebrated, where innovation is encouraged, and where the pursuit of truth is valued above all else.

A world where we are not afraid to ask "Why?" A world where we are not afraid to challenge the powerful. A world where we dare to imagine a better future, and then work tirelessly to create it. That is the world that dissent and nonconformity can build.

A Legacy of Defiance: Historical Figures Who Dared to Be Different

From the quiet act of refusing to give up a seat on a bus to the resounding call for equality delivered from a pulpit, history is rich with figures who stood against the tide. Their courage wasn't born of recklessness, but from a deep conviction that the world could, and should, be better. These individuals, through acts of dissent and nonconformity, etched their names into the annals of progress. Let's examine some of these pivotal figures and the lasting impact of their defiance.

Rosa Parks: The Spark of a Movement

Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in 1955 was more than just a personal act of defiance; it was the catalyst for the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

Her quiet dignity in the face of blatant injustice ignited a fire that swept across the nation, challenging the deeply entrenched system of segregation. Parks' action demonstrated that even seemingly small acts of resistance could have profound consequences, inspiring countless others to stand up for their rights.

Martin Luther King Jr.: The Power of Nonviolent Resistance

Following Rosa Park's act of courage, Martin Luther King Jr., emerged as a leader of the Montgomery Bus Boycott and an influential voice for racial equality.

King's philosophy of nonviolent resistance, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, became the cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement.

He eloquently articulated the moral imperative of challenging unjust laws through peaceful protest, civil disobedience, and unwavering faith. King's leadership and powerful oratory galvanized a generation to fight for justice, leaving an enduring legacy of hope and equality.

Susan B. Anthony: A Champion for Suffrage

Susan B. Anthony dedicated her life to the fight for women's suffrage, relentlessly advocating for women's right to vote.

She fearlessly challenged societal norms and legal barriers, enduring arrest and public ridicule for her unwavering commitment.

Anthony's tireless efforts paved the way for the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, a testament to her enduring legacy as a champion for gender equality.

Henry David Thoreau: The Individual Against the State

Henry David Thoreau, a 19th-century writer and philosopher, famously advocated for civil disobedience as a form of protest against unjust government policies.

His essay, "Civil Disobedience," argued that individuals have a moral obligation to resist laws they deem unjust, even if it means facing imprisonment.

Thoreau's philosophy of individual conscience and resistance to governmental overreach has inspired generations of activists and thinkers, from Mahatma Gandhi to Martin Luther King Jr.

Malcolm X: From Outlaw to Advocate

Malcolm X's journey from a life of crime to a powerful advocate for Black self-determination is a testament to the transformative power of dissent.

Initially advocating for Black separatism, Malcolm X later embraced a more inclusive vision of racial equality before his assassination.

His fiery rhetoric and unwavering commitment to Black empowerment challenged the status quo and inspired countless individuals to fight for their rights and dignity.

Margaret Sanger: A Pioneer for Reproductive Rights

Margaret Sanger defied societal norms and legal restrictions to advocate for women's access to contraception.

Her pioneering work in the field of birth control was met with fierce opposition, but she remained steadfast in her belief that women should have control over their reproductive health.

Sanger's efforts laid the foundation for the modern reproductive rights movement, empowering women to make informed choices about their bodies and futures.

Harvey Milk: Hope in the Face of Prejudice

Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, became a symbol of hope and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.

His message of equality and empowerment resonated with a generation struggling for recognition and rights.

Milk's life was tragically cut short by assassination, but his legacy of courage and advocacy continues to inspire activists and leaders today.

Jackie Robinson: Breaking Barriers, Changing Minds

Jackie Robinson's breaking of the color barrier in Major League Baseball was a watershed moment in American history.

His presence on the Brooklyn Dodgers challenged deeply entrenched racial prejudices and paved the way for other Black athletes to pursue their dreams.

Robinson faced relentless discrimination and hostility, but he persevered with grace and dignity, demonstrating that talent and determination know no color. His actions transformed the landscape of American sports and society.

The Ripple Effect of Defiance

Each of these individuals, in their own unique way, challenged the status quo and left an indelible mark on history. Their acts of dissent, while often met with resistance and hostility, ultimately contributed to a more just and equitable world. By examining their lives and legacies, we can learn valuable lessons about the power of courage, conviction, and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

Movements That Moved Mountains: The Power of Collective Resistance

From the quiet act of refusing to give up a seat on a bus to the resounding call for equality delivered from a pulpit, history is rich with figures who stood against the tide. Their courage wasn't born of recklessness, but from a deep conviction that the world could, and should, be better. These individual acts of defiance, however, often sparked something far greater: the collective movements that reshaped societies.

These movements, driven by shared grievances and a unified vision, harnessed the power of dissent to achieve transformative change. They are a testament to the fact that when individuals unite and raise their voices in unison, even the most formidable barriers can crumble.

The Symphony of Shared Struggle

The tapestry of history is interwoven with threads of collective resistance, each movement a symphony of shared struggle and unwavering hope.

The Civil Rights Movement stands as a beacon of this power, demonstrating how nonviolent direct action could dismantle deeply entrenched segregation.

From the Montgomery Bus Boycott to the Freedom Rides, the movement challenged the very foundations of racial discrimination, proving that equality is not a privilege, but an inherent right.

Likewise, the Women's Suffrage Movement illustrates the enduring power of persistence. For decades, women organized, protested, and endured ridicule in their relentless pursuit of the right to vote.

Their unwavering commitment ultimately shattered the barriers that denied them a voice in shaping their own destiny.

The LGBTQ+ Rights Movement exemplifies the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance. From the Stonewall Riots to the fight for marriage equality, this movement has challenged societal norms and prejudices, pushing for a world where all individuals can live authentically and without fear.

It demonstrates that love, in all its forms, deserves recognition and protection.

The Voices of Workers: The Labor Movement

The Labor Movement has been a constant force in the pursuit of fair wages and safe working conditions. Through strikes, boycotts, and collective bargaining, workers have fought for their rights, often facing powerful opposition.

Their efforts have led to significant improvements in labor laws, ensuring a more equitable distribution of wealth and opportunity.

The Anti-War Movement has consistently challenged the human cost of conflict, raising awareness about the devastating consequences of war and advocating for peaceful resolutions.

These movements have played a crucial role in shaping public discourse, prompting critical reflection on the ethics of military intervention and the pursuit of peace.

Black Lives Matter: A Call for Justice

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement represents the ongoing fight for racial justice in the face of systemic inequality.

Born from a series of tragic events, BLM has amplified the voices of marginalized communities and sparked a global conversation about police brutality, racial profiling, and the urgent need for comprehensive reform. It underscores that justice delayed is justice denied.

Common Threads of Resistance

Despite their diverse goals and contexts, these movements share common strategies and tactics that have proven effective in challenging established norms.

Nonviolent direct action, a cornerstone of many successful movements, involves peaceful protests, civil disobedience, and other forms of non-cooperation.

This approach aims to disrupt the status quo and force those in power to confront the injustices being protested.

Community organizing is another critical element, building solidarity and empowering individuals to collectively address their grievances. By creating strong networks of support and shared purpose, movements can sustain momentum and amplify their impact.

Strategic communication plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support.

Movements utilize various forms of media, from traditional outlets to social media platforms, to disseminate their message, raise awareness, and challenge dominant narratives.

Political advocacy is essential for translating public support into concrete policy changes.

Movements engage with elected officials, lobby for legislation, and work to elect candidates who champion their cause. These actions demonstrate that change requires persistent engagement and a commitment to holding those in power accountable.

The movements that moved mountains remind us that progress is not a passive process. It requires courage, collective action, and a steadfast belief in the possibility of a better world. By learning from the successes and challenges of these movements, we can empower ourselves to become agents of change and contribute to a more just and equitable future.

Principles That Guide Us: Navigating the Moral Compass of Dissent

From the quiet act of refusing to give up a seat on a bus to the resounding call for equality delivered from a pulpit, history is rich with figures who stood against the tide. Their courage wasn't born of recklessness, but from a deep conviction that the world could, and should, be better. But how do we ensure our dissent is a force for good? How do we navigate the complex moral landscape of challenging the status quo? It begins with understanding the principles that underpin ethical and responsible dissent.

The Bedrock of Ethical Dissent

Dissent, at its heart, is a challenge to power. It's a refusal to passively accept the dictates of authority, whether that authority resides in government, tradition, or social norms. But such challenges must be grounded in ethical considerations. Without a moral compass, dissent risks becoming destructive, even tyrannical, in its own right.

• Integrity: Above all else, dissent must be rooted in truth and honesty. Misinformation and manipulation undermine the very foundation upon which meaningful change can be built.

• Compassion: Genuine dissent seeks to alleviate suffering and promote the well-being of all, including those with whom we disagree. It is fueled by empathy, not animosity.

• Responsibility: We must be accountable for the consequences of our actions. Dissent is not a free pass to inflict harm or disregard the rights of others.

Embracing Civil Disobedience

Civil disobedience, the conscious and public refusal to obey unjust laws, is a powerful tool for change. However, its use must be carefully considered and ethically justified.

Defining Civil Disobedience

Civil disobedience is not mere lawlessness. It's a principled act of resistance, undertaken with the express purpose of challenging injustice. It acknowledges the legitimacy of the overall legal framework while protesting a specific violation of fundamental rights or moral principles.

Justifying Civil Disobedience

When can civil disobedience be considered justified?

• Injustice is manifest: The law or policy being challenged must be clearly and demonstrably unjust.

• Other avenues have been exhausted: Civil disobedience should be a last resort, pursued only after exhausting all legal and political means of redress.

• Nonviolence: Civil disobedience must be nonviolent, both in its methods and its aims. Violence undermines the moral authority of the movement and risks escalating conflict.

• Willingness to accept consequences: Those engaging in civil disobedience must be prepared to accept the legal penalties for their actions. This willingness demonstrates the depth of their conviction and underscores the seriousness of their challenge.

The Power of Individualism

Individualism, often misunderstood as selfishness, is in this context the courage to think for oneself, to form one's own judgments, and to act according to one's own conscience. It is the wellspring of dissent, the refusal to blindly follow the crowd.

Cultivating Independent Thought

In a world saturated with information and propaganda, cultivating independent thought is more crucial than ever. This requires critical thinking skills, a willingness to question assumptions, and a commitment to seeking out diverse perspectives.

Acting on Conviction

It is not enough to simply hold dissenting views. True individualism demands that we act on our convictions, even when it is difficult or unpopular. This may involve speaking out against injustice, supporting marginalized communities, or challenging harmful social norms.

Counterculture as a Catalyst for Innovation

Counterculture movements, which challenge the dominant values and lifestyles of society, have often been a catalyst for positive change. By questioning established norms, they open up space for new ideas and possibilities to emerge.

Challenging the Status Quo

Countercultures encourage us to examine the assumptions that underlie our social structures and institutions. They challenge us to ask whether these norms truly serve the common good, or whether they perpetuate injustice and inequality.

Fostering Creativity and Progress

By breaking free from conventional ways of thinking and behaving, countercultures can foster creativity and innovation. They provide a fertile ground for new forms of art, music, literature, and social organization to flourish.

The Imperative of Peaceful and Constructive Engagement

Ultimately, dissent must be aimed at building a better world, not simply tearing down the old. This requires a commitment to peaceful and constructive engagement.

Dialogue and Collaboration

Even when we disagree strongly, we must be willing to engage in dialogue with those who hold opposing views. Listening to and understanding different perspectives is essential for finding common ground and building consensus.

Offering Solutions

Dissent is most effective when it is coupled with concrete proposals for change. Identifying the problems is not enough; we must also offer viable solutions. This requires careful research, creative thinking, and a willingness to compromise.

Building Bridges

• Dissent should strive to build bridges, not walls. It is about uniting people around shared values and goals, not dividing them along lines of ideology or identity. By embracing these principles, we can ensure that our dissent is a force for positive change, a catalyst for a more just and equitable world.

Landmarks of Resistance: Honoring the Sites Where Change Took Root

From the quiet act of refusing to give up a seat on a bus to the resounding call for equality delivered from a pulpit, history is rich with figures who stood against the tide. Their courage wasn't born of recklessness, but from a deep conviction that the world could, and should, be better. Tangible reminders of these pivotal moments – the very ground where these battles for justice were fought – stand as powerful testaments to the enduring human spirit. These are the landmarks of resistance, and they offer invaluable lessons for those who seek to build a more equitable future.

Selma, Alabama: A Bridge to Justice

The Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, is more than just a structure of steel and concrete. It is a sacred site, forever etched in the annals of the Civil Rights Movement as the location of "Bloody Sunday."

On March 7, 1965, peaceful marchers, advocating for voting rights, were brutally attacked by law enforcement as they attempted to cross the bridge.

This horrific event, captured on national television, galvanized public opinion and ultimately led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

The bridge serves as a stark reminder of the violence and oppression faced by African Americans in their struggle for equality.

Remembering Bloody Sunday: A Pivotal Moment

The story of "Bloody Sunday" underscores the critical role of nonviolent resistance.

Despite facing unimaginable brutality, the marchers remained steadfast in their commitment to peaceful protest.

Their courage and resilience in the face of such violence helped to sway public opinion and pressure the government to act.

The Edmund Pettus Bridge is a powerful symbol of the transformative power of peaceful resistance.

Stonewall Inn: A Beacon of Pride

The Stonewall Inn in New York City's Greenwich Village is hallowed ground for the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

In June 1969, a police raid on the Stonewall Inn sparked a series of spontaneous demonstrations and protests by members of the gay community.

These events, now known as the Stonewall Riots, are widely considered to be the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

The Stonewall Inn became a symbol of defiance and a rallying point for a community that had long been marginalized and oppressed.

A Refuge for All: Stonewall's Enduring Legacy

The legacy of Stonewall extends far beyond the LGBTQ+ community.

It stands as a reminder that all people deserve to live with dignity and respect, free from discrimination and prejudice.

The Stonewall Inn is a beacon of hope for those who continue to fight for equality and acceptance around the world.

It reminds us of the progress that has been made, and the work that still needs to be done.

Montgomery, Alabama: The Cradle of Civil Rights

Montgomery, Alabama, holds a unique and significant place in the history of the Civil Rights Movement.

It was here, in 1955, that Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

This year-long boycott, led by Martin Luther King Jr., demonstrated the power of collective action and helped to desegregate the city's public transportation system.

Walking in Footsteps of Giants: The Legacy Continues

Montgomery is home to numerous other landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement, including the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. King served as pastor.

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry, also calls Montgomery home.

These sites serve as reminders of the struggles and sacrifices made by those who fought for equality in the American South.

They inspire us to continue the fight for justice and to ensure that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.

Inspiration For Tomorrow

These landmarks of resistance are more than just historical sites.

They are living monuments to the courage, resilience, and determination of those who fought for a better world.

By visiting these sites, reflecting on their significance, and sharing their stories, we can honor the past and inspire future generations to continue the struggle for justice and equality.

These sites continue to inspire activists and organizers, and serve as tangible reminders that progress is possible when people come together to demand change.

Guardians of Liberty: Organizations That Defend Our Rights

From the quiet act of refusing to give up a seat on a bus to the resounding call for equality delivered from a pulpit, history is rich with figures who stood against the tide. Their courage wasn't born of recklessness, but from a deep conviction that the world could, and should, be more just. But these individual acts, while powerful, often require the backing and support of larger, more established organizations to truly blossom into lasting change. These organizations serve as the guardians of our liberty, tirelessly working to protect the rights we often take for granted.

The Vital Role of Civil Rights Organizations

These organizations are the unsung heroes, the dedicated defenders of the marginalized, and the persistent voices for justice. They are the backbone of progress, providing legal expertise, advocacy, and a platform for those who would otherwise be silenced. Supporting them is not just an act of charity; it's an investment in a more equitable future for all.

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): Defending the Constitution

The ACLU stands as a steadfast defender of the Bill of Rights, ensuring that these fundamental principles are applied to all, regardless of their background or beliefs.

For over a century, the ACLU has been at the forefront of landmark legal battles, challenging unconstitutional laws and defending the rights of individuals facing discrimination or government overreach.

Their work spans a wide range of issues, including:

• Freedom of speech and religion
• The right to privacy
• Equal protection under the law

The ACLU's Impact

The ACLU's impact is undeniable. They have been instrumental in shaping legal precedent and protecting vulnerable populations from abuse.

By supporting the ACLU, you are directly contributing to the fight for a more just and equitable society, one where the Constitution truly protects everyone.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP): Championing Equality for African Americans

The NAACP has been a driving force in the fight for racial justice in America for over a century.

From its early efforts to combat lynching and segregation to its current work addressing systemic racism and economic inequality, the NAACP has remained unwavering in its commitment to empowering African Americans and ensuring their full participation in American society.

NAACP's Multifaceted Approach

The NAACP takes a multifaceted approach to achieving its goals, including:

• Legal advocacy
• Political mobilization
• Community organizing
• Educational initiatives

The NAACP is not just fighting for civil rights; they are working to build a society where race is no longer a barrier to opportunity.

Beyond These Two: A Network of Support

The ACLU and NAACP are just two examples of the many organizations dedicated to defending our rights. A vast network of dedicated groups champion human rights issues locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Explore organizations such as:

• Human Rights Watch
• Southern Poverty Law Center
• The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

Become a Guardian

Supporting these organizations is an investment in our collective future. Their strength is our strength; their vigilance, our safety. They need our financial support, our volunteer hours, and our voices to amplify their message. Visit their websites, donate if you can, and stay informed about the issues they are fighting for.

Together, we can ensure that the principles of justice, equality, and liberty remain the cornerstones of our society.

Tools of Empowerment: The Arsenal of Change

From the quiet act of refusing to give up a seat on a bus to the resounding call for equality delivered from a pulpit, history is rich with figures who stood against the tide. Their courage wasn't born of recklessness, but from a deep conviction that the world could, and should, be more just. That conviction, coupled with effective tools, becomes a formidable force for change. But what are those tools, and how can we wield them responsibly and effectively?

We stand on the shoulders of giants, inheriting a legacy of struggle and a framework of rights and mechanisms designed to challenge injustice. These tools are not mere concepts, but tangible instruments of empowerment waiting to be deployed in the service of progress.

The Indelible Ink of the First Amendment

At the heart of our arsenal lies the First Amendment to the US Constitution. Often invoked, sometimes misunderstood, it remains a cornerstone of our liberty. It guarantees freedoms vital for any meaningful dissent: speech, religion, assembly, and the press.

The freedom of speech allows us to articulate our grievances, challenge prevailing narratives, and advocate for alternative visions. The freedom of religion protects our right to conscience, enabling us to act in accordance with our deeply held beliefs.

The right to assemble provides the space for collective action, for joining together with like-minded individuals to amplify our voices and demand change. And a free press ensures that these voices can be heard, that information can flow freely, and that power can be held accountable.

However, freedom of speech is not without limits. It does not protect incitement to violence, defamation, or other forms of harmful expression. It's our responsibility to wield this powerful tool with wisdom, restraint, and a deep awareness of its potential impact.

Civil Disobedience: A Moral Imperative?

When laws are unjust, when systems perpetuate inequality, does a moral obligation arise to resist? Civil disobedience, the intentional violation of laws deemed unjust, has a long and complex history.

From Henry David Thoreau's refusal to pay taxes in protest of slavery to the sit-ins of the Civil Rights Movement, civil disobedience has been a powerful tool for challenging oppressive regimes.

But it is not a tactic to be employed lightly. It requires careful consideration, a deep understanding of the potential consequences, and a commitment to nonviolence.

Principles of Peaceful Resistance

Peaceful resistance is a powerful way to affect change.

It demands discipline, courage, and a unwavering commitment to non-violent principles, to embody the change we seek. It challenges the conscience of the oppressor, exposes the injustice of the system, and inspires others to join the struggle.

Lawsuits: Justice in the Courtroom

The courtroom can be a battleground for justice. Lawsuits provide a mechanism for challenging discriminatory policies, holding institutions accountable, and seeking redress for harms suffered. Landmark cases, like Brown v. Board of Education, demonstrate the transformative potential of legal action.

But access to justice is not always equal. Legal battles can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. It requires resilience and strategic thinking.

Public interest law firms and legal aid organizations play a crucial role in ensuring that marginalized communities have access to legal representation and can effectively challenge injustice.

Informed and Engaged Citizenship: The Foundation of Change

Ultimately, the most powerful tool we possess is an informed and engaged citizenry. We must educate ourselves about the issues, participate in the political process, hold our elected officials accountable, and support organizations working for justice.

We must foster critical thinking skills, challenge our own biases, and engage in respectful dialogue with those who hold different views. Lasting change is not imposed from above, but built from the ground up, through the collective action of informed and engaged citizens.

It requires us to move beyond apathy, to reject cynicism, and to embrace our role as active participants in shaping our society. It requires courage, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the possibility of a more just and equitable world.

So, there you have it. Swimming against the tide in the USA isn't always easy, but as these stories show, sticking to your guns and forging your own path can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you're a rebel with a cause or just trying to live authentically, remember that sometimes the most meaningful life is the one you design yourself, even if it means taking the plunge and swimming against the tide.