Maybe it’s the tumultuous times we live in. Maybe it’s the fact people have had to deal with a whole lot of change and personal upheaval the past year. Regardless the explanation, it seems more difficult than ever to take personal responsibility for the consequences of our choices these days. For example . . .
We’re all weary of the mask mumbling—to wear, or not to wear. Yet the choice to put one on or leave it off can result in very different outcomes, for the person making the decision as well as the people around them. Am I ready to take responsibility for my actions?
If I decide to get behind the wheel after consuming more alcohol than is wise and cause a deadly crash, will I take responsibility for my poor judgement?
My annual physical/wellness exam is a good opportunity to touch base with my primary care physician and make sure I’m in good health. Will I ‘forget’ to schedule the appointment and take responsibility if something unpleasant occurs down the road?
And the list goes on and on.
We don’t have a problem taking responsibility for the good stuff. The big profit return on an investment. The delightful, palate pleasing dinner we purchased or made for family or friends. The near perfect vacation spot we found after lots of research. And that’s okay.
The real challenge is this: how willing are we to choose the loving action to take responsibility—our contribution or lack thereof—when things don’t turn out so well?
It’s a normal human reaction to want to find a ‘culprit’ for the painful or hurtful circumstances of life. Years ago I learned that’s called blame shifting. Yep, guilty on this end.
Here’s the good news—when you choose to respond to the prick of conviction you feel to step to the plate and acknowledge your part in anything, good, not-so-good or otherwise, things will usually begin to improve or heal almost immediately.
When we take personal responsibility for our choices and actions, we open the door of our hearts to forgiveness, hope, and restoration. Of ourselves and others.
Difficult? You bet. Worth it? Absolutely.
How do I feel about taking responsibility for my choices and actions?
What happens if the outcome is less than pleasant?
Can I ask God to help me ‘do the right thing’?
