Black Sheep
By Curlann
@annierose (21571)
Philippines
July 5, 2024 9:43pm CST
In every family, there's that one member who stands out. The black sheep. They're the ones who march to the beat of their own drum, daring to challenge the norms and traditions that bind our family together. Whether it's pursuing unconventional career paths, questioning long-held beliefs, or simply living life on their terms, they spark conversations and sometimes even friction.
Do you think having a black sheep in the family ultimately makes us stronger?
19 people like this
19 responses
@Deepizzaguy (104150)
• Lake Charles, Louisiana
6 Jul
It is a good question since the black sheep of the family can ruin the good family name.
4 people like this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
That's an interesting viewpoint, George. While it can create friction, it can also lead to valuable discussions and a deeper understanding within the family.
2 people like this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
@Deepizzaguy Thanks, George! It's great to find common ground on this topic.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Absolutely, Judy. Pursuing their own path can indeed lead to personal growth and new perspectives within the family.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Marching to the beat of your own drum shows your independence and willingness to embrace your true self, Julia. It's an admirable trait.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
That's understandable, Anna. It's true that having a black sheep can sometimes lead to added stress.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
@LadyDuck It's true that the actions of a family member, like Prince Harry, can stir up a lot of attention and discussion. Families often face challenges with how to navigate such situations.
1 person likes this
@LadyDuck (472074)
• Switzerland
7 Jul
@annierose A black sheep can ruin a family, important family had their reputation ruined by a black sheep... Look at Prince Harry and what he did to his Royal Family, this is a lot more than "stress".
1 person likes this
@Dena91 (16686)
• United States
6 Jul
I think being the black sheep makes a person stronger because of what you mentioned.
As far as making the family stronger, it depends on the family. I have known some who did their own thing against parents/grandparents wishes and the family split apart while others seemingly grow closer.
2 people like this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Great point, Dena. The impact of a black sheep really does depend on the family dynamics and how they handle differences.
1 person likes this
@aninditasen (16503)
• Raurkela, India
6 Jul
If that black sheep harms the family members because of his out of the way behavior and thinking he should be away from the family.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
When someone's behavior affects others negatively, it can be challenging. Respecting each other's boundaries while staying connected can help maintain family harmony.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
9 Jul
@aninditasen That's true, Anindita. It can indeed be difficult when negative behaviors impact family dynamics. Finding ways to respect boundaries while fostering connection can be a delicate balance.
1 person likes this
@aninditasen (16503)
• Raurkela, India
8 Jul
@annierose That's rarely done in a family where a negative person stays.
1 person likes this
@pumpkinjam (8770)
• United Kingdom
7 Jul
I think it depends on the family and on the black sheep. It can also be difficult to work out who the black sheep actually is! It might turn out that the one person who speaks up is actually saying what others are thinking, it's just they're the first to say it.
I also say it depends on the family because some will have open discussions, consider why the black sheep is different/thinks differently. On the other hand, there are families who do not listen or will immediately push out someone with a different opinion.
1 person likes this
@pumpkinjam (8770)
• United Kingdom
7 Jul
@annierose absolutely, and that is something I always try to do with my boys (both adults). They know they have a voice and their opinions matter just as much as anyone else's. I've often felt that my thoughts didn't matter or not been comfortable voicing them. I hope that I don't make any of my children feel like they are a black sheep.
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
You're right. Every family is different, and how they handle someone seen as different can vary a lot. Sometimes, the person who speaks up might just be saying what others think but haven't said yet. How families deal with these differences can really affect what happens next. It's about being open and trying to understand each other.
1 person likes this
@kaylachan (71762)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
6 Jul
Considering I was that black sheep, and my family was toxic for all hell, yes. I became stronger being the black sheep because I learned not to be a doormat.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Your experience shows the strength and self-awareness that can come from being the black sheep, Kayla. It's empowering to hear how you grew from it.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
@kaylachan It's wonderful to hear how you've found strength in your journey. Embracing your uniqueness is a powerful thing.
@kaylachan (71762)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
6 Jul
@annierose I feel honored that I can honestly say so, too. Most black sheep don't.
1 person likes this
@psanasangma (7280)
• India
6 Jul
Yes, there will be always one who will come with this characteristics... Nowadays I am also not sure about myself whether I am turning black sheep or is it I am getting older that I am excluding myself and always doing opposite
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Self-reflection is crucial, Sanna. Whether you're a black sheep or just finding your own path, it's important to stay true to yourself.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
@psanasangma Absolutely, Sanna. Staying true to yourself is key. Your journey is unique and valuable.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
Being the black sheep often means you're brave enough to be different and think for yourself.
1 person likes this
@RasmaSandra (80736)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
6 Jul
Yep, I know what everyone went through with my hubby's brother who was the Black sheep and finally mercifully he met his end quickly dying of tuberculosis,
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
I'm sorry to hear about your husband's brother. It's often tough dealing with a family member who challenges the norms, but their impact on the family can be profound.
1 person likes this
@moffittjc (121714)
• Gainesville, Florida
6 Jul
If there was a black sheep in my family, I surely never knew who it was. I'm pretty sure everyone in my family was a black sheep. I had a pretty crazy family (but in a good way). There was no shortage of laughter when we'd have family gatherings.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
Sounds like your family gatherings must be full of energy and laughter, Jeff! Having a bunch of black sheep can bring a lot of fun and uniqueness to family dynamics. Embracing each other's quirks often makes for memorable moments.
1 person likes this
@moffittjc (121714)
• Gainesville, Florida
9 Jul
@annierose Yes, I definitely have a very fun family, full of laughter and memories.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
9 Jul
@moffittjc Laughter and uniqueness definitely make for special family gatherings.
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
@just4him Valerie, that's a great way to look at it. Being different can be tough, but it's also what makes you special. Keep being you!
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
It's inspiring to hear that being the black sheep made you stronger, Valerie. Your resilience and courage are commendable.
1 person likes this
@just4him (317241)
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
6 Jul
@annierose Thank you. I've always considered I walked to a different drummer. It made me unique. It also brought me a lot of criticism from my parents, who considered me and my family as black sheep.
1 person likes this
@arunima25 (87854)
• Bangalore, India
6 Jul
I might be considered the one by few in my family. I want to live my life on my own terms and beliefs. But I am not disrespectful to anyone in the family. I expect the same respect for myself too. So, having a black sheep might not always be the bad thing. Family matters a lot to me. And in times of need, I help everyone irrespective of whether they like me or not for being strong headed.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
It's admirable that you stay true to your beliefs, Arunima. Family bonds indeed matter, and mutual respect is crucial. Being strong-headed can show determination, and your willingness to help others speaks volumes about your character.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
8 Jul
@arunima25 That's a profound realization. Staying true to your inner conscience is important.
1 person likes this
@arunima25 (87854)
• Bangalore, India
8 Jul
@annierose Thank you. I have learnt that my inner conscience will be the last one left with me. I can't go against it 
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
It's wonderful to hear that your family bonds are strong, Ifamous. Each family has its unique dynamics that work for them
1 person likes this
@marguicha (223776)
• Chile
6 Jul
Being a black sheep or not depends on who sees it. If the cave child had not challenged his peers we would still be living in caves. Or we would have perished.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
That's a great historical perspective, marguicha. Challenging norms often leads to progress and innovation.
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
7 Jul
It can be tough to feel like the black sheep and get ignored. Sometimes, it might seem like others have it easier, but everyone has their own struggles.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Well said, Sathya. Balancing personal freedom with family respect is key to living harmoniously while staying true to oneself.
@RevivedWarrior (2485)
• India
6 Jul
Black sheeps can be of two kinds. One who does their own things without hurting others and another doing things hurting others . The second kind is fatal and destroy bonds in family. The first kind could be good for the family in some contexts. I have experienced both kinds of black sheeps . Family bonding is usually when there are regular meets and connects than just people. However, these are now dying due to lack of time and interests from the younger generations.Thanks for sharing!
1 person likes this
@annierose (21571)
• Philippines
6 Jul
Absolutely! It's clear you've had varied experiences with different types of black sheep in families. It's important to recognize that some choose to do their own thing responsibly, which can sometimes be positive. On the other hand, those who cause harm can really impact family relationships. It's sad that family gatherings are happening less often these days. Building and maintaining connections can really help keep those bonds strong. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this!
1 person likes this
