Word Play: Normal vs. Typical

Normal implies one is healthy yet I know of many "normal" behaviors that is very destructive.  When put that way when one says "normal" they don't mean healthy, the word they are really looking for is "typical".  

Normal for one person is not normal for another even though the word "normal" implies just that.  It might be normal for someone to go from one relationship to another in succession but that doesn't mean it's healthy or normal behavior--more likely that's normal for them but this relationship roulette is typical among young teens/adults.  

The word "typical" implies shame or blame -- two destructive emotions that in the right circumstance are needed but they are like salt--use sparingly.  

Really when someone says "they are normal" it means they can relate to that person.  Saying "that's typical" implies you don't approve of them.  Looking at synonyms of these words, normal and typical, invoke a certain amount of disdain.  " Normal " is like saying common, average, regular, or unexceptional.  While people want you to be "normal" they also want you to be unique, personable and out-of-the-ordinary but someone they can relate to.  It feels like an oxymoron to be unique but common.  

Each one of us is different, yet we are still people, the same race with the same needs.  We look for similarities within others which is good, but we go wrong when our gut reaction takes over and attacks when we find something different about our friend.  

Different so often equals bad to so many and it's a fear based survival instinct that's hard to identify and reason out.  We distance ourselves from those that we find different from us.  This is "typical" behavior but I don't find it a weakness I see it as it is--a survival trait.  

In the definition of the word everyone is normal.  Take heart that other people are normal too with typical behaviors not in the sense that they are different or healthy but in the same vein that we all struggle with being whom we are versus whom people want us to be.  

Acceptance of yourself and others will combat that nagging inside that tells you this person should be thinner or that person needs to be more secure.  Acceptance is not the same as apathy.  Acceptance is your peace with "normal" and "typical".  Acceptance is more often than not the key to your own happiness.  By no means does acceptance trounce on goals, aspirations or things you'll stand up for -- no, no don't mistake acceptance with apathy.  Acceptance is what makes it possible for you to look at the bigger picture and see that "normal" does not mean healthy and "typical" is not meant as a rebuff.  

So when you say "normal" consciously know you are making a judgment call and that normal does not mean better.  When a problem arises what is the typical solution?  Normal and typical have the same synonyms but they don't always mean the same thing.  They are words that are unique in sound, mean the same and yet we apply different meanings to them.  Just take note as to which meaning you intend and know the underlying message but use acceptance as a mediator.