Colouring Between the Lines -49
In Search of a Wisewoman
When we say “colouring between the lines” we mean to think or act within generally accepted guidelines; following the rules; play by the book.” In psychology colouring outside the lines is to see the world differently, to perceive things outside of the box. We reward children with stars on their pictures when they manage to colour between the lines. From an educator’s point of view it indicates an improvement in hand eye coordination. From a social perspective, we like the orderliness and tidiness. We perceive the opposite as sloppy and carelessness.
Children are wild animals that need to learn constraint and to play well with others. The programming of any young animal species is undertaken to teach them how to live independently and to avoid danger. Witness the sow grizzly who allows her cubs to tumble and crawl over her but the moment that they are out of line, this behavior is quickly followed by a lightening swat. The ingrained instinct is that play is normal but potentially dangerous conduct must cease. Parents of the past acted much the same way. There was never any doubt when a child was out of order. In a more permissive way, the pendulum has swung to its farthest reaches.
When we insist on total compliance, of staying between the lines, we often squelch creativity, individuality, and new ways of thinking. When we allow individuals to act as they please they often cross over the necessary boundaries that keep a society civil. There is opportunity in offering free thinking and in enabling fresh ways to flourish. We all need to be able to shuck the shackles and do something random, but not at the expense of others.