Life Is Interesting: Why Do We Make The Choices That We Do?

Choosing coffee

Which coffee is it to be? Choices! Sam had the same dilemma as I did. Photo by FitOldDog, with permission.

Coffees“The Master has no mind of her own.
She works with the mind of the people.

She is good to people who are good.
She is also good to people who aren’t good.
This is true goodness.

She trusts people who are trustworthy.
She also trusts people who aren’t trustworthy.
This is true trust.”

Tao Te Ching, Lao-tzu.

I’ve made some really bad choices in my time, so I often wonder why I chose this course of action, or that person, over another. That hobby? That friend? That job? Trusting that person, and not someone else? That working hypothesis of life? I am starting to suspect that emotions, following my initial analysis, play a major role in the way I do it, much to my annoyance. Sometimes I misread these feelings – hell, I never did really understand feelings. Don’t forget, on Star Trek, Mr. Spock was the only one that made sense to me, and NO! I never did like Top Of The Pops, and I still don’t.

Rick Fee, FitOldDog's friend.

Here’s a guy I trust, Rick Fee, great athlete, great Dad, great guy, and wearing my brand. Photo by FitOldDog, with permission.

My Mom always said, “By their deeds shalt though know them.” Finally, I think I’ve got it right – watch, and if people are abusive, chuck them out of your life, but not necessarily out of your heart.

Today, on my way to the pool for a basic workout (1,000 yards easy, 30 minutes water run), I stopped in a local coffee shop for a 12-ounce to go. I had two choices. I looked at the labels, and they both held strong memories. Mexico versus Raleigh, NC.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Mexico City, but I lived in Raleigh for several years. Finally, the thought that dominated, was, “Buy local!” Which is what I did. Raleigh won out.

When it comes to trusting people, I watch and assess. That is why I trust my swimming buddy, Rick. He walks the walk, as opposed to talking the talk. I know plenty of people who love to talk, but turn out to be jerks in the end. Not Rick!

Such decisions can make or break your life, so be careful.

“Trust the trustworthy, trust the untrustworthy,” is fine for the development of a trusting life, but,

‘Don’t be an idiot about it.’

Happy Trails.

 

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Disclaimer: As a veterinarian, I do not provide medical advice for human animals. If you undertake or modify an exercise program, consult your medical advisors before doing so. Undertaking activities pursued by the author does not mean that he endorses your undertaking such activities, which is clearly your decision and responsibility. Be careful and sensible, please.