My mom often said, "Everyone has to live their own life." These words were spoken mainly when I would question an individual's choice or decision. As I grew older, and made my own decisions about how I spent my time, my mom's words comforted me. I knew she typically would not agree or disagree with my decisions as she really wanted me to "live my own life." Even when I asked for advice, she usually just left the decision up to me. I know she was trying to foster greater independence in me, her eldest child.
Some of us, naturally want to impose our thoughts and ideas onto other people's lives--we want to decide for them, when the truth is that people will choose for themselves. They know mainly know best who they are and what they need to live their best possible lives. When asked for advice, we can offer a few words, but it's probably better to offer less words than more.
My mom left me with many good tidbits of advice--advice that I often refer to as I make decisions in life. I am grateful for this. Onward.
