Choices we make in life

Life is full of choices and it is the choices we make that define us. I, like many, have made many bad choices in my life and have lived to regret them. Of course I also have made more good choices than bad, I guess you could say I learned from my experience. But it brings to question just how do you know what is the best choice when there are so many good options to pick from? Then with so many making bad choices do we ever learn from the experience of others?

My grandfather, an wise man, told me several times “You best learn from the mistakes of others for you just plain don’t have enough time to make them all yourself.” Growing up on an Indian Reservation, that proved to be very good advice for we were constantly in hot water over something. However I did put his advice to task and have learned several lessons in life that saved my skin and kept me out of trouble. Somehow I managed to grow up to be an adult.

The lessons we learn in life, oh my how did we ever make it? It brings to mind, just how do you know you have made the right decision? For me, I have learned to ask myself several questions:

1. Who does this decision serve?

2. Does it make life better for someone other than you?

3. Will anyone be hurt with this decision and if so what are you going to do about it?

Basically it comes down to this – Every decision you make in life effects everyone in your life, good and bad, so make sure you think about how it effects others as well as it effects you. You do that and you will find you are making better and better choices in your life and you are happier too.

When making decisions, it is very important to honestly assess the risk that is involved. Sometimes we can become so mesmerized by a “golden carrot” that we overlook the risks that are associated. For this one, I would suggest that you have an outside voice speak into the situation. It is a sign of wisdom to be cautious. Not fearful, but cautious.

Proverbs 27:12 A wise man foresees evil and hides himself; the simple pass on and are punished.

Walk daily with God at your side!!

Ed