When I ponder over the question, "Is what we're building akin to a cult?" I can't help but think about the connotations that word carries.
Yes, there's an element of intense enthusiasm and a strong sense of belonging we're nurturing within our community, which some might superficially liken to a cult. But the traditional notion of a cult—isolation from the outside world, suppression of individuality, and blind allegiance to the collective—is far from what we aspire to create.
In any community, there's a degree of compromise, yet our vision is not about eroding individual uniqueness. Instead, it's about celebrating it. We're not looking for conformity; we're seeking those who already resonate with our core values like kindness, curiosity, health, a positive mindset, and a commitment to truth. People who are not just brilliant in their own right, but whose brilliance shines brightest when they are unapologetically themselves.
Imagine a community where your unique superpower, the very essence that makes you, you, is not just welcomed but revered. Where your distinct talents and perspectives are not hidden but are the very reason you're valued. We're not aiming to have people shed their individuality; on the contrary, we want them to feel more authentically themselves than ever before, even amidst their differences from others.
Think of it like the X-Men. Each member has their unique abilities, yet they are united by a common purpose. That's the kind of community we're building. A place where diversity in thought, talent, and personality isn't just accepted but is the foundation of our collective strength. Where being different isn't just tolerated; it's the prerequisite.
So, calling what we're creating a 'cult' doesn't resonate with me. It's not about losing yourself to the group; it's about finding and expressing the best version of yourself within a community that cherishes that individuality, all while working towards a shared, positive goal.
And importantly, instead of isolating our members from the outside world (as cults do), the popup containers that may be superficially seen as temporarily separating our members from the outside world are actually making them better citizens, partners, daughters, sons, etc. If we do our jobs, our members will leave our containers fired up to contribute to the world outside of our community.
Ultimately, we're not just building a community that reverts to some mean; we're fostering a truly exceptional collective of unique minds united in serving each of their highest purpose.