Vain Jangling
Just because I…doesn’t mean it is my fault … happened to me.
There seems to be a belief (at least among some) that people are not responsible for or should be free from consequences brought about (at least in part) by their choices, actions.
A thief is shot or killed because they chose to rob. A user dies or becomes mentally impaired because they chose to use drugs. A person (and the children with them) are enslaved or die because they chose to cross the border illegally. An individual goes to prison or losses their life because they chose to break the law. A young person indulging in alcohol so much so, that they chose to go to unsafe places or join sketchy persons. Choices.
This is a difficult truth. Often heartbreaking. Sometimes the consequences seem too harsh for the crime (or poor decision). It may be said, “They did not deserve this.” It may be found, “This could have been avoided.” And these may be true (even if only in part). It may be that someone else is or should be held accountable for what followed the initial choice.
However, it is vain jangling to dismiss the poor decision, the choice of the individual, as if one is free of the consequences that come upon any who make unwise choices. Secondary choices (i.e. order of events) do not void the responsibility or irresponsibility of the initial or previous choice.
Make wise decisions. Help others do the same. Protect, encourage, lead, and save as many as possible from the consequences of bad decisions. Make informed choices. Understand the consequences. Weigh is it worth it.
Vain Janglings 