Write Your Story

Today, I finished The Other Bennet Sister, which was a very good series on Britbox.  I would recommend it to anyone.  Without giving anything away in specifics, the main character, Mary, was being pressured by her mother and society to choose a specific path, which would have given her acceptance and wealth.  But, she chose herself in that case, because she did not love that path.  It went on to a very wonderful conclusion, which I will not give.  Go watch it for yourself.  Very nice.

However, I wanted to congratulate the character on making that choice for herself.  Today, someone I respect at work said that you often do what you have to do, but that it isn't always pleasant or recognized by others.  I know that story theme well.  It seems to have defined me in all of my decades in one way or another, as I made decisions that were not popular or faced unwarrented prejudice and judgement along the way.  Indeed, I am currently heading towards some branches in my story that will be difficult and lonely at times, but they are also what needs to be done, if I am going to be true to myself and my dreams.  No one else needs to understand, if you are doing what is best for you.

The story of your life is written by yourself.  Many feel they are victims, but that is an illusion based in fear.  There are times in my life that I have stepped away from the popular and trendy path and have faced rejection for it.  But, what I found in those days was freedom to write my own story.  I chose to make it a good one, with my values intact.  But, the pen for the story was in my own hand, and I realized in that moment that NO ONE can make you do what they want, and as Eleanor Roosevelt said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."

So, yes.. consider the needs of others, but do not forget your own needs.  Remember that you cannot blame anyone else for your story, and you have the right and obligation to write it, yourself.  I do not blame anyone else for their choices against me, either.  They must write their own story, too.  What is best for my focus and action, instead, is to build the new.  So, join me in writing and doing the story of your new life.  I believe in you to make it one that will make you smile.