The Secret Power That All Black Sheep Possess
Updated January 2023: I’m so glad you’re here and taking steps towards healing. I do have a series of articles on reparenting but want to be upfront that I’m in a place in my healing journey where I’ve moved away from talking about narcissistic traits in others and I’m currently focusing solely on my expansion and what brings me joy. I’ve moved away from the textbooks and have jumped headfirst back into shadow work art (my original healing medium) mixed with a newfound interest in mushrooms. If the thought of using art and mushrooms to find peace outside of your family’s dysfunctions excites you then definitely do poke around. Sending you luck on your journey, friend.
Almost every family has a black sheep, a person who stands out as different in a bad way—but all black sheep share a secret power.
What is a black sheep?
The black sheep represents an archetype—an underdog that should not be underestimated.
Back in the day, black sheep were considered unfavorable because you couldn't dye their wool to any color you liked. They were what they were. They gave you what they had to give. And you couldn't change it.
And to people who sold wool, that was bad.
In families, the black sheep are usually the ones who are considered deviant troublemakers. They're often viewed as the source of all the familial problems. The black sheep take a lot of blame as family members target anger, rage, hostility, frustration, or hurt towards them unfairly.
Whenever a black sheep speaks up about their mistreatment, they are usually met with even more resistance, disdain, distorted truths, or accusations. Over time, it's clear that the family ostracizes the black sheep, pushing them further and further out of the social circle.
The secret power of the black sheep.
Because black sheep are excluded from their families, they are often compelled to develop their own reality apart from family influences, including traditions, ideals, attitudes, and values.
Although this lifestyle isn't easy, it does open up the black sheep's world.
Here are some of the black sheep's best traits—because there is a bright side in every dark place.
Often, black sheep don't receive the same physical or emotional support from their family. It can be too easy to focus on how this independence (sometimes at a young age) negatively impacts your life, but the physical freedom of being a black sheep graces you with opportunity.
Black sheep aren't tied down to their families, and they often choose to explore the world without hesitation. They can explore what they want for their lives without worrying about what their family will think (since they'll disapprove no matter what).
The experience of being a black sheep also gifts you with a stronger sense of self, a greater ability to empathize with others, and the chance to discover your found family.
So, if you're a black sheep, consider it your secret power—because it is there, waiting to be discovered.