Being Principled: Saying No To Some Things

I came across a post shared on social media recently, just a few days back. Fortunately, the content of the post reflected the subject of the discourse in this prompt. In it, the reader or whoever would come across it is cautioned to learn to, not do everything, not say everything, not take everything and not go everywhere. It emphasised the need to develop some principles, as it's what could save and distinguish a person.

I can't agree less. We tend to do everything and go everywhere because principles haven't developed yet. When principles are developed and put in place, we will be able to say no to some requests or to some prompting within us to do something or go somewhere. When we find that we are “all yes” about anything, then our standards and principles need to be considered.

Of course, the desires that could make us want to hop onto every act or deed seem irresistible. Especially in our world today, where everything seems to be about vibes and fun, it can be hard to say we won't do “everything.” Sometimes, beyond our resolve, the influence from close allies could affect such resolutions. That's why I believe that in this journey of principles and standards, and not compromising, our associations matter.

In this little sojourn of mine in life, there are things I had to say no to doing. The thoughts could come, but the unending resolve remains instrumental. Due to my faith, beliefs, principles and standards, I have had to say no to some things; be it going somewhere or doing something. In the long run, it's about building a life of value and substance. Trust me, the “do everything” or ”go everywhere” person hasn't proven otherwise about this.

One of such things that the resolve for a life of value coupled with beliefs, standards and principles has led me to is to never be found dehumanising people. What this means is that I shouldn't be caught using derogatory terms or language on people, not to treat them less as a person, and not to objectify people. It feels uncomfortable and how much better am I to speak so low of one created in God's image?

Another one is not to support evil in any form or anything that degrades morality. Not even to be involved in my own way. It's a funny and dark world that we live in. There's so much of it that I shouldn't be adding to the darkness but rather contributing light. It's not an easy resolve I tell you, but it's a worthy one. Was it necessary? Yes, very much so. Especially now that morality is made to look appalling when it should be the other way round. And we see the result in our world.

When we learn to say no to some things that deserve so, it goes beyond just developing values and standards or principles for ourselves, but even creating a better world as well. The reason we will resolve not to do some things is obviously because they're wrong. I mentioned some of my decisions here. It will be needful to also mention that it isn't as easy as said. It's a battle every day to say “I can never do this.” So, I trust the help of God, with a strong, committed resolve on my part.

Images are mine.

Thank you for reading through!