Can I Live Authentically Without Caring About Others' Opinions?

I actually think that as long as it doesn't violate social morality and respects the laws and regulations of our country, finding happiness through one's own lifestyle without changing one's personality for the sake of others' opinions is perfectly acceptable.

The vast universe has given birth to our habitable blue planet. With diverse minds and differing viewpoints among all living beings, the concept of 'others' opinions' naturally arises.

Regarding the best understanding and cognition of any matter and person, the principle should be to select the best. Good suggestions that promote social harmony and further strengthen neighborly relations should be adopted. However, we must filter out rumors and speculation, even if it's just a fleeting remark, to avoid unnecessary trouble.

I was born and raised in the north, nurtured by the vast black soil of the north. I remember once traveling to the south on business, where there's the saying of 'Southern sweetness, Northern saltiness, Eastern spiciness, Western sourness.' Northerners generally prefer strong flavors.

That was because I brought along a box of Northeast's specialty – large soybean paste (which couldn't be bought in the south). When having dinner with a Northeast friend, I used it to dip cucumbers, green onions, and lettuce.

Surprisingly, this seemingly ordinary way of eating in the Northeast became a sensation in the south. To southern friends, it seemed extraordinary, even a little frightening, and drew the attention of several onlookers (with some taking photos). Their confused and curious gazes were like seeing an alien. Someone even asked, 'How do you eat raw lettuce like that?' We remained silent, and luckily, we all maintained a good attitude. We understood that southern people had different tastes and didn't consider their questioning shallow or ignorant of the nuances of delicious food.

Only this kind of mindset can allow you to live authentically. Perhaps after we leave, they will talk about us endlessly, becoming a topic of conversation. But I will face it calmly, and I will never change my eating habits because of their surprised gazes and dramatic expressions.

I went to that restaurant repeatedly to showcase my personality, still dipping green onions and soybean paste into raw lettuce. They were eventually used to it, and some even dared to try it. The final review was, 'Not repulsive, but also not particularly liked',

This experience made me fully realize that there is no trouble if you're not a fool and obsess over things.

Reflection;

People say about people in front of people.

People talk about you behind your back.

Let the clouds gather and disperse as they will.