In every moment of our lives, we have choice. In some moments, that choice may be greatly limited, and in other moments, that choice may be wide and broad.
As I think of people I've read about who are in the most dire of circumstances, I recognize that their choices were greatly limited by the evil they faced. Yet, they still had choice with regard to what thoughts they entertained, what prayers and reflection they may have, and what small actions they could do. At times like that, I imagine that the great fear that one faces may result in inaction of any kind, but if we can remember that we have choice, we can at least take some control in life's challenging moments.
As I consider this, I am thinking about how I cannot lose sight of the choices I have at every moment. Every normal day, we make hundreds, if not thousands, of choices. And those choices, great and small, influence the way we experience life.
For example, during the holiday season, we make choices about the celebrations we take part in, the gifts we give, the attitude we have, and the contributions we make. Our choices, at this time of year and every time of year, say a lot about what we value and what we don't value. Our choices also reflect our personality, interests, and investments of time, energy, and resources.
When we are intentional, our choices better reflect what and who we value in life. When we understand our values well, our choices are better alined to those values.
When our choices are challenged, we are called to think deeply about what we do and why we do it. Sometimes those challenges result in revision, and sometimes those challenges may result in a deeper commitment.
The acknowledgement of choice, empowers us. When we recognize the choices we have, we become stronger, more resilient, positive, and intentional in our lives. When we recognize choice, we are less apt to be a victim and more apt to be a true leader in our lives and potentially the lives of others too.
What choices do we have that truly make a difference in our lives?
The way we spend our time is a choice that most of us enjoy. We choose our daily routines, and the routines we commit to, greatly influence our lives. Our routines influence who we interact with each day, how we interact, and the influence of those activities on our relationships, health, and happiness. If we have a routine that is continually unhappy and unhealthy, we won't profit in positive ways, but if we have a routine that is healthy and happy, we'll likely profit positively.
How we use our resources is also a choice, and that choice influences who we are, who we connect to ==, and what we do.
It's important to think carefully about the choices of words, actions, time, energy, and resources as that promotes the kind of life we hope for and support. Onward.
