Today I want to talk about values. The values that one grows up with in our families, and the ones we learn to acquire as we age. The values that you have and uphold are the foundation of your character, and they represent who you want to be as a person. However, sometimes those values can be in danger from society.
You know, sometimes I see people who have certain values for the life they want to lead, but because of pressure from others, they compromise those values in order to follow the crowd. It would be easy to say, "Don't do that! Just stick by what you know", but it is not always as easy as that.
One of my favorite books to read is Jane Eyre by Bronte, because of the scene in which the protagonist is tempted to leave all of her values, thoughts and person for the acquisition of a short term fulfillment. But she doesn't. She upholds herself and her values through her common sense and meditation, because that is what is right for her.
When the soul is filled with emotions of fear, anxiety, ecstasy, or any other extreme passion, our minds can become clouded. We let those fears compromise our values and beliefs. It is only when we let our minds be at peace, calm, and open that we can truly view the whole picture for what it is. Through calm eyes, the decisions we make can become clearer, and we can uphold the values instilled in us.
The values that we learn are there to help guide us when we are faced with feelings of fear, anxiety and concern. But in order to use those values we must also learn to meditate and have a clear mind for thinking. Having values in your life is just the beginning. Upholding those values in times of crisis is the true test of knowledge.
This week's task: Stick to your values at school and work, and learn to meditate in order to have a clear mind for making decisions. Have a excellent week!
Be strong, be unique, and step out of your comfort zone!