There is no doubt about what you share in this article krnel.
There is another aspect that I think can be summarized by this story (true story but I forgot the names, I will reference him as Legend).
An interviewer was asking a massively succesful businessman who is revered as inspirational leader, great family member, philanthropist and innovator.
Interviewer: While your life a legendary example for those who want to get out of the rut, what inspired you to personally to be all these?
Legend: My father. He was a drunkard, abusive and he ill treated my mom and lived like unnecessary weight on the earth. I decided early on NEVER to be him.
Interviewer then goes on to interview the Legend's brother who still lives in the same home where both brothers grew up.
Interviewer: What keeps you in this slums?
Brother: I am son of a drunkard, abusive and unsociable father, what do you expect of me?
Another example, if you are raised by a racist family - you no doubt harbor those behaviors until you go out and learn that 'character' is more important than 'color'.
In summary, while for majority, family determines what values we take on, more conscious people become, they can choose what makes most sense to their conscious rather than carrying on what's given to them.
As always, your posts are thought provoking and informative, thank you krnel!
I concur. I wonder if self-awareness is an attribute that can be developed or instill in children. Honestly, despite our parents' best efforts, they might unknowingly influence in a bad way. Rather than blindly accept our parents' words as a given, we should learn how to question their values.
Interesting and thought-provoking article and comments.
Yup, good story that illustrates how we can overcome our bad environments with conscious will. And, how others can show us how not to be ;)