BAA BAA BLACK SHEEP
Every family does not have a Black Sheep..but they definitely have a Scapegoat! Sheep or goat..same family, different genre.
The scapegoat becomes the butt of the family angst by difference not default. They are usually different by nature, looks, achievements but all of them possess that defining quality that sets them apart from the rest of the sheep.
It could be the idealist born into the family of cynics, the cheery optimist among the hard core depressives, the visionary who refuses to follow the family dream - the reasons are varied but the outcome is always the same.
He/she becomes branded and whatever they do they become subject to derision, anger, ridicule, blame and finally the dreaded judgment is pronounced- 'Black sheep of the family'.
But, unlike the nursery rhyme he/she refuses to part with his/ her dreams or wool. Instead, they pack their bags, all three bagfuls and move far away from the judgemental flock.
Even with distance they cannot escape the censure of being 'The Scapegoat' All subsequent ills that befall the family are a direct consequence of his/her actions- did not keep in touch with the family so parents died broken hearted ( don't factor in the diabetes or cholesterol!) did not follow the family business so it went legs up..the list is endless.
Wear the badge with honour...'Scapegoat'and flee the family of sheep!
Nimmou Nilakantan
