Cog, or a Particle, which would you want? Options

[AC9breaker]

With Summer just about here, I've had a lot more time to do things Ive been wanting to do, and a lot more time to do nothing. Usually in those times of nothingness, I contemplated about things I've done or plan to do; entertain various thoughts of existentialist, philosophical, political, or just thoughts of an incoherent nature.

Recently I've had this thought in my head and I'm not sure which would better suit the goals I plan on achieving. That being would it be better in life to live as a cog in a clock, or a particle in space. I don't recall exactly what was thinking that brought me to these two examples but ultimately I thought a choice is made of from these two.

As a cog, one would have others to support you, one can depend on others (which could also serve as a handicap) there is a logical order or process in which things occur.

As a Particle, one is free to choose ones own destiny , no constraints. The Unexpected.

There are also downsides to both paths but I would rather see what some of you guys would say or choose. There is the other path that I've obviously overlooked. I say that because I refuse to believe that there is only two choices in anything we do in life. So, lets share our thoughts with each other. Do I just have too much free time on my hands or is there something to what I'm saying here?

[Sieranis]

Wow...

Let me begin by mentioning that I adore all things philosophical. However, due to the lack of continuing to challenge or keep my mind trained, I can no longer form cohesive or meaningful responses. So I basically consider myself an idiot who tries not to portray himself as such. I'll tell you right now that I wish I could bring something into the conversation that would make some or any sense to all of you. Though I'm still going to try.

To me, being a particle seems to be similar as feigning ignorance. To claim uniqueness and self-importance, which people tend to do, trying to disassociate themselves from the normal crowd. Though I'm not saying that being a socialite is any better. Both do tend to lead to the eventual formation of a group with like-minding ideas or whatnot. Much like what occurs in schools, although I feel that may be a bad example. With that I feel that, similar with HC82's thoughts, "freedom" is not quite what it's definition implies in reality. The given choices that an individual may make, is in itself bound by many circumstances that said person may have. Ok, so now I feel like I'm just reiterating what was just mentioned, so to give an example I'll now use myself.

Right now there are many things I wish to do, however, be it my mentality or my living situation, I'm now greatly limited in my choices. At this moment, I want to start college, however due to expenses I'm restrained from picking a college that will educate me in the certain careers I like. I'd also like to start working, and earn some much needed experience in the workplace. I could also try to do both, work part-time and go to college. Although that would be more efficient I don't think I'll be up to the task. I'll go on to mention that I do have a mental disorder and it greatly affects my ability to function. I even have greater aspirations that I would like to reach, and because of my disorder this sometimes leads to the breakdown of evaluating my life as it stands. And as helpful as contemplating oneself can be, I begin to lose track of my original goals.

Although my thoughts on the cog will be less extensive they go straight to the point. The cog would be a much more logical choice, given my frame of mind. To be able to rely on others is the greater strength. Of course in reality it really depends on the person/persons you are relying on. Should they prove to be unreliable, you find yourself. in a problematic situation.

At this point, I wish there was a third choice, one that is equal in reliance and freedom. But you mentioned none, so meh... I stand by the cog. You have my apologies if I couldn't really add to the discussion.