According to Wikipedia (which as we all know, may or may not be accurate), "black sheep" is an idiom used to describe an odd or disreputable member of a group, especially within a family. The term has typically been given negative implications, implying waywardness. It derived from the atypical and unwanted presence of other black individuals in flocks of white sheep.
To go even further and reference the American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms (obviously more reputable than Wiki), "black sheep" means: The least reputable member of a group; a disgrace. For example, Uncle Fritz was the black sheep of the family; we always thought he emigrated to Argentina to avoid jail. This metaphor is based on the idea that black sheep were less valuable than white ones because it was more difficult to dye their wool different colors. Also, in the 16th century, their color was considered the devil's mark. By the 18th century the term was widely used as it is today, for the odd member of a group.
Well one thing you may have gleaned from this blog is that we're odd. I am the self-proclaimed black sheep of my family, given the many times I've been wayward (as my family would call them, mistakes), I'm obviously the odd one out. Yes, I live unconventionally, I've given up the family religion, the family political party, and live life differently.
This hasn't proven to be too much of an issue with my immediate family, because I have to be honest, they can be a little odd too, and my parents were both the black sheep of their families (that whole apple and tree idiom is coming to mind). However, with the extended family it seems to be a problem. While there are family members who are not afraid to call, text, message, associate, etc with me, to the others I'm treated that if they ignore me, I might actually disappear. It does bother me at times, as I obviously feel left out, but I can't change the past, and I can't change who I am.
Any advice from any fellow black sheep out there?
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