Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the
way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Matthew 7:14 (KJV)
The above is
a quote from the first book of the new testament in the bible (a book I am an
avid believer of by the way). It was Jesus speaking, someone who knows more
than a few things about acting right in my opinion.
A popular
saying goes thus “majority carries the vote”. Yes, that is how democracy works
but is that really how personal decisions should work? Is stuff just right cos
everyone does it? Should something be the norm because most people think it is
normal? Should you imbibe a habit because everyone around you has the same
habit?
Not to get
it twisted, I am one for pragmatism when it has no long term effects or tends
to deceit. If you have to wear a blue pair of shoes that your work contract
tells you to wear, by all means, go for it. However, should you wear a Nazi flag
because your line manager suggests it even though it is against your belief
system? Does it really make sense to eat pork at a work party even if it is
against your religious beliefs? See, the thing is drifting from your original
path or place of destiny assignment does not happen overnight, it is gradual. I
will say that again more clearly, losing your identity and consequently
yourself is a gradual process. A one-degree turn from a straight path does not
look huge over 10 metres, the difference is clearer over 1000 metres. A little
compromise here, a little compromise there, watch what becomes of you over a
few years.
Again, do
not be foolish or become a social outcast by being unnecessarily stubborn in
folly or stupidity and blaming everyone else for always disagreeing with you
but please stand your ground when you are under pressure to betray who you are.
It should be said at this point that if you have to keep fighting everyone and
every single thing in sight over your opinions and values, maybe it is time to
call those values into question. After all, it is okay to have a different point
of view as you mature.
No one gets
respected by being easily manipulated. You don’t have to be cantankerous or
troublesome, but by all means, hold your ground – with a smile if you have to.
If you are a vegetarian, stay off meat even at a barbeque meet (see the play of
words 😊). If you like rap music, listen to
rap music even around church folk. If you love to wear jeans, don’t wear a suit
to please anyone (well, except your father-in-law especially before you get
married).
Point is,
without getting over sanctimonious, stay true to yourself. I am not the most
experienced guy in this life thing but the little I know tells me true and
genuine joy comes from within. See the pretty girl, the boss guy on the 7th
floor or the ever-serious-looking guy at church? Their validation might bring a
bit of happiness but never really joy. What makes you smile for no reason and
gives you the courage to face what this world throws at you is within you. Do
not sell it for what the people who don’t even understand you have to offer.
Oh, err.. about the joy-giving thing, having a Jeff Bezos kinda bank account
balance would help as well but that’s a whole ‘nother sermon topic for another
day.. 😊 Stay safe friends and stay true to
yourself! It’s what really drives the enemies bonkers.
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