Title: The Struggles of the “Almost People” in Society
Subtitle: Understanding the Invisible Scars of Near-Humans
Date: June 23, 2023
Author: Mick Duschak
In a thought-provoking column published on Metronieuws.nl, Mick Duschak sheds light on the plight of the “almost people” in our society. These individuals, who have experienced near-success or near-achievements, often find themselves grappling with invisible scars and underlying insecurities.
Duschak begins by recounting a conversation with an “almost-human” who proudly states, “I did the havo, but I could have easily coped with the atheneum.” This near-human then goes on to share how they almost embarked on a world trip but ultimately decided to pursue further studies. However, as the author reveals, this study was almost completed but never fully realized.
The column highlights the tendency of near-humans to be interesting about things that never actually happened. They often share near-experiences, such as almost going backstage at a concert or nearly achieving a significant milestone. While some readers may feel a sense of irritation or internal itching when confronted with these narratives, Duschak urges compassion and understanding.
Duschak argues that near-people are victims of a society that places immense value on achieving success and capturing perfect moments. In their pursuit of validation, near-humans polish their assets, which are essentially their near-experiences. They hope to impress others with their almost-achievements, unaware that this often diminishes their shine and brushes away their true potential.
The author emphasizes that success is a relative concept and takes various forms in our lives. Completing the mavo or havo education levels and enjoying one’s school days can be considered extremely successful. Duschak laments the fact that near-people fail to recognize the beauty of imperfect moments and the difficulty of capturing perfect pictures on camera.
Rather than feeling irritated by the near-experiences shared by these individuals, Duschak encourages readers to feel a healthy dose of compassion. He suggests being thankful for not expressing the same underlying insecurities and urges readers to consider the possibility of finding near-people sympathetic one day.
In conclusion, Mick Duschak’s column sheds light on the struggles faced by the “almost people” in our society. These individuals, driven by a desire for success and validation, often find themselves trapped in a cycle of near-achievements. By fostering compassion and understanding, we can help create a more inclusive society that appreciates the beauty of imperfection and celebrates the journey, rather than just the destination.
Respond to article: The almost people
What societal norms and expectations contribute to the struggles of near-humans, and how do these pressures affect their mental health and overall fulfillment
Errupted and overshadowed by their more successful counterparts. They are constantly compared to those who have achieved great things, making their accomplishments seem insignificant in comparison. Duschak emphasizes how detrimental this can be to the self-esteem and confidence of these individuals.
The author delves into the psychology behind the struggles of the “almost people,” explaining that their insecurities stem from constantly feeling like they are not enough. They live with the constant fear of not living up to their full potential and experiencing regret for the paths not taken. Duschak emphasizes how this fear affects their decision-making and prevents them from taking risks, ultimately hindering further growth and success.
Duschak also explores the societal norms and expectations that contribute to the struggles of near-humans. From an early age, children are taught to strive for success and achievement, creating a hierarchical system where those who fall short are made to feel inadequate. The pressure to conform and meet these expectations can be overwhelming for near-humans, leading to anxiety, depression, and a lack of fulfillment in their lives.
Ultimately, Duschak calls for a shift in societal attitudes towards the “almost people.” He encourages empathy and understanding for their experiences and acknowledges that their accomplishments, no matter how small, are still worth celebrating. By creating a more inclusive and supportive environment, society can help alleviate the invisible scars felt by near-humans and empower them to embrace their unique journeys.
In conclusion, Mick Duschak’s thought-provoking column sheds light on the struggles faced by the “almost people” in our society. By highlighting their invisible scars and underlying insecurities, Duschak calls for greater empathy and understanding. Ultimately, he urges society to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of near-humans, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
