Week 28: Do's and Don'ts

Do or don't? A frequently asked question. Although this debate happens mainly within our subconscious, we are always faced with choices. Our mind then immediately begins to weigh its options and draw conclusions. Then we choose and act. But let's focus on the why. Why do we or don't we do the things we do?

Some argue that the choices we make are determined by a particular predisposition while other argue that our choices are shaped by that which surrounds us. The whole nature vs. nurture debate. While I do not plan to argue in favor of either point, I will ask, Why do YOU do the things you do? I have often questioned myself about this. Every time I make a mistake, the first thing that goes through my mind is, Why did I just do that? Think back to your own experiences. For example, have you ever purposely tried to annoy someone else, when if somebody had done the same to you, you would be upset? What drives us? Is it a moral compass? An uncontrollable predisposition? I believe that a 100% factual answer cannot be reached. It is a matter of opinion.

I recently discussed with one of my dearest friends one side of the argument. We discussed the role of circumstances in the event that we became friends. Would we, if put under different situations, still achieve the level of friendship we have? Or was destiny the deciding factor in our friendship. I thought about all the different possibilities and probabilities and my mind became overwhelmed. Then I realized something more important that the why or how things happened: the aftermath. What really matters is how we handle the situation that our choices make. We cannot concern ourselves with things of the past. We must look to the future. So who cares about how my friend and I became so close? I should be grateful that I have this person in my life. End of discussion. So forget what it is that brought you to where you are in life. Just focus on making the best of what you have been given. Give thanks to your Maker for all you have and do what is necessary to continue in a positive direction.

You have no limits. Don't let the past drag you down. Look to the future. Make the most of your do's and don'ts. Just live.

T.