Baa Baa Black Sheep

We're all familiar with the black sheep cliche, the family member or friend who doesn't quite fit in with the standards of the others and is, in general, considered a pain in the rear end. The poor misunderstood black sheep tries to fit in but efforts are either not seen as genuine or, even worse, not seen at all, spiraling Black Sheep further into the world of Black Sheepdom.

So what's Black Sheep to do? Of course there are many contributing factors, but Black Sheep has two options. They can deny their Black Sheepdom and come back to the world of Sheep, constantly dying their wool match, and most likely becoming tired and bitter. Or Black Sheep can embrace the mystique, the image of rebellious toughness that combined with smarts and good sense can propel Black Sheep to the head of the flock. Because, keep in mind, Black Sheep is not separate, just different.

I'm always impressed, and a little wary when people introduce themselves as a black sheep. I watch self-proclaimed Black Sheep out of the corner of my eye, wondering if they have told me of their black sheepness because they are hoping I'll forgive them for their differences or that when the time comes I'll help them, or just get out of their way.

I'm inclined to like Black Sheep. They are often intense, mostly smart and always interesting, which is a main reason writers use Black Sheep so often as their protagonists in literature. And where would we be without Elizabeth Bennet, Lirael, or Harry Dresden, just to name three of my favorite black sheep.

Who is your favorite Black Sheep?