One's philosophy is not best expressed in words; it is expressed in the choices one makes. In the long run, we shape our lives and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And, the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility. Eleanor Roosevelt 1884-1962
Ouch. This is too grown up for me!
In the face of serious disappointments, Eleanor Roosevelt chose the world as her venue. I was coming of age in her older age. At the time, because I was so young, I saw her images, but did not read her words. In some ways she reminded me of the Queen. Her personal sense of style never changed from the time she was a relatively young woman dressing as an older woman to an old woman who dressed like every other old woman of her day.
But her mind! Well, that is something to celebrate! She said many things that are equally relevant today.
My own choices, well, I wouldn't want them all known, that's for sure. But outside of the flagrant choices I knew were wrong but did them anyway, the choices I've made that some might think not so hot were made in love, or up to the highest sense of love I could muster.
And yes, they are my responsibility.
Ouch.
Couldn't I just blame life? the other fellow? circumstances beyond my control? I gotta take responsibility? Ouch.
I'm opting to make some interesting choices, even if I do say so myself.
How about you? Are you making choices or do you let life make them for you? Are you a bystander or do you actively engage?
Karin
Originally posted 2007-06-05 17:02:19.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I am content to be an observer more than a participant in life because I just don’t have physical strength. I don’t think of myself as a ‘bystander’, though. Bystanders let others get away with what they shouldn’t. ~wink~
I hear you. There are a lot of physical things I wouldn’t choose because I couldn’t do them, unless I had to for some reason. I’d rather sit inside with a cup of hot chocolate and watch skiers than ski. I’m not sure that’s a bystander. That’s an involved observer. Somebody’s got to be the one to appreciate the skill. Because it’s not a skill I possess, for sure!