Optional But Mandatory

Most of us have been in this situation before. We are given a choice by someone. It’s optional, they say. But, both you and they know, that it’s really not. Sure you can say no, but it will be highly frowned upon if you do. It’s these optional, but mandatory choices that can either wreak havoc on our lives, or provide smooth sailing.

On our jobs, we are given these types of choices all the time. Will we attend the company’s annual Christmas party or do that extra task, just because? If we’re wise, then we will say yes to both. What if we don’t want to? Then, we will pay the consequences. These consequences may not come right away, but give it time. The more we say no to these optional choices, the more they will be used against us later.

We also face these choices at home. Will the husband take out the trash? He has an option. He is free to ignore it while it flows over the edges of the trash can. But, wives know that this really isn’t optional. It will be frowned upon and remembered next time the husband wants something. The same goes for wives. I can’t speak for other women nowadays, but as for me, I cook dinner every day. Yes it’s optional, but my son would starve otherwise. Therefore, it’s mandatory.

Loving our family is another decision we must make. After all, love is a decision. We don’t have to love, but we should. When a family member hurts us, lies to us or turns their back on us, we should still love them. Compare that to children. If our child does something that is wrong, we don’t stop loving them. We just don’t like what they did.

Our behavior is also optional. If someone makes us angry, we have every right to slap them. But, should we? No. It’s an option, but mandatory that we don’t. Unless, of course we want to spend a night in jail.

We should always treat others properly. No one should be treated as if they are lower than us. Each person is equal, just unique. We should respect our elders. Remember, that without them we wouldn’t be here. When others are hurting, we should try to help them. Life is not all about us. In moments of disagreement, there are times when we should bite our tongue. Some things don’t need to be said.

All of these are options. But, they are mandatory if we want to live in peace and achieve success.

What optional, but mandatory choices have you faced? You don’t have to comment. It’s optional, but I’d like it if you did.