Our Freedom to Choose

This week we started with celebrating Memorial Day. The statement that I always hear is “they fought for our freedom”. On Wednesday, I was running an errand and realized that I have the freedom to choose. I had chosen to run that errand at that time. I also had the time to run the errand. I was glad that I had that choice.

We all have the freedom to choose at least one thing. We can choose how we feel about something or someone. We can choose how we will respond to an event or a remark. If we do not have the freedom to choose, then we need to ask ourselves how we got to that point. What choice did we make that took that freedom at this moment?

Yes, we made a decision somewhere. I have made many. Some I learned were correct quickly. I learned that some were wrong quickly. Some I learned later if they were right or wrong. Some of them I may never know the answer.

Everyone needs time to reflect on a situation. If we do not have time to stop and think, then we need to take time after the crisis to determine how we got to that point and work to correct it. I enjoy taking an extra hour at lunch at least a couple of times each week. It allows me to think through some conversations. I can see situations from a different perspective. It gives me options. This allows for choices to be made.

I also enjoy taking a moment each morning to think through the important activities for that day. I am learning to take a 10-15 minute break between activities. This allows me to think the day through again. I can sometimes make adjustments. I like having the flexibility.

Yes, I realize there are times when one must react. One must go on defense quickly. However, the objective should be to get back on offense. Think sports.

I also have days where changes cannot be made unless it is an emergency. However, those days are known about in advance so I try to have a day or two before to handle flexible items.

Thank you to all of the people past and present who have made this freedom available to me.