Each sociolinguistic community weaves a conceptual matrix. This web of words, of concepts, is a strong determinant of what we see as Reality. This can readily be seen when learning a new language. For example, the matrix or thought domain of English is different from that of Chinese. English divides the world into subjects and objects with subjects doing things to objects and objects objecting. Chinese regards the world as more of an interflow.
Each sociolinguistic community provides us with a thought helmet that puts bounds on our perception. We wear our thought helmets happily and do not understand why folk do not see the world as we do. We can even feel quite righteous about it.
Can we step outside the sociolinguistic community? Yes. A more relevant question is do we want to? We seem to love our hive mentality. Strong social pressures exist to stay within the community, to fit in. This brings up other questions. Do we dare? Do we dare step outside? Take a fresh look around? Can we even do so? Is it possible?
Fortunately (from my point of view), stepping outside our thought community is a natural process. When we go to nature, we can let go of words. A walk in the forest, for example, can allow one to take off one's thought helmet. (Unless of course, you are yakking on your cell phone the entire time or checking your text messages.) A similar process can occur with sitting quietly, letting go.
We return to our sociolinguistic community with fresh perspective, new vision. Our conceptual matrix, our thought helmet is not so confining. We may even from time to time ride helmet free.
