Let's face it, I see the world from a less predictable, common perspective than many. Many over time have tried to alter my perspective in countless ways, but I continue to stick to what is natural and right for me which means that I'm often alone in my opinion or effort.
I listen to what others say. I consider their perspectives seriously, and then I make the best possible choices given what I know and what I believe in.
In general, my choices in life are made with the following values:
- I believe that everyone has a right to live their lives in ways that bring them happiness as long as they are not hurting others.
- I believe that there are many, many ways to live a good life--good living is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor.
- Everyone has different capacities for different situations--in some situations, we may have great capacity and in other situations, we may be greatly limited. We have to accept that fact and work well with that in mind.
- I believe that best possible love and care for children creates a happy, prosperous, healthy environment for all.
- I believe that quality, honest education is a key to good living.
- I believe that the natural world is our greatest resource, a resource to be protected and cared for.
- I believe that many systems that exist in society are dehumanizing and in need of rethinking and remaking.
- I believe there is a lot that we do not know about life and living--there's lots to learn, explore, and understand.
- I believe that our collective and personal knowledge will continually evolve over time--there will be some concepts that stay true throughout time such as the power of love, and there are many concepts that will change considerably such as our understanding of how the universe works.
- I believe that each of us is unique and we all have individual pulls and pushes that make us who we are.
- I believe there is room for human variety and diversity, and that variety and diversity is what makes us strong and successful.
- I believe that none of us can stay silent in the face of dehumanizing harm and hurt--it is up to all of us to keep each other safe and to promote good living for all. Everyone has responsibility in this endeavor, and everyone's responsibility will differ dependent on their unique set of experiences, skills, interests, and perspectives.
Am I a wild card?
Some would say yes, since I live life in my way without great allegiance to any one person, perspective, or group? Others would say no, since my life represents a very common life--a life shared by many woman, wives, mothers, neighbors, educators, friends, and family members.
Wild or not? I'll continue to live my life with my values at the helm, and if I'm moved to change my values by good research and understanding, I'll do that. But for now, this is who I am. Onward.