Decisions decisions

One of the first things I learned in debate club is that it is possible to make a case for either side.  Another thing I learned early on is that I missed the comfort of thinking there was someone who knew it all.  I wanted an authority I could count on, but by the age of eleven I already knew that everyone was fallible.

I think most of us realize these things -- until -- we feel really bad.  Then, like sick children, we start looking for someone to make it better.

Friends are quick to support us, even encourage us to feel worse and arm ourselves against dangers which have not reached the gigantic proportions television and movies portray as everyday problems.  And once we buy into this there are a plethora of counselors, self help books and groups to fuel the flames.  Most suggesting sweeping, life changing solutions that will rock everyone in our world from the youngest baby to the oldest grandparent.

When all these things start redefining who we are and who we thought we were, when they begin to re tell our stories and histories with new outlooks, when they change the reality of what we once believed -- life becomes very confusing.  Like cults, certain people are very good at manipulating others, egging them on, stirring up false assumptions.

I am so suggestible and when I don't feel good I am easy to sway, especially if the people talking to me sound sincere, loving and caring.  I forget how many people like to be saviors, how they fall into the role of rescuing even if they need to fan the flames before putting them out.

Rash actions almost never serve anyone.  If something is worth doing, it is worth doing in a slow methodical, meticulous way because you will never regret minimizing the carnage.