Just Because Is Not Good Enough

I have a problem with people who can not, do not or will not express their understanding of their routine, behavior or beliefs. They become robots going about their lives never understanding their own reasons for their routines. Questioning why we do the things we do, why we believe the things that we believe is tantamount to stopping and smelling the roses. Why is it acceptable to stop and admire nature and to share our thoughts and feelings about this experience yet conversely it becomes taboo to stop and think about why we behave or believe in a certain way and to share our thoughts and feelings about that? Is it to much to ask that we be able to explain our actions when considered in the context of accountability? If I am going to be held accountable for my behavior and ideals should I not at least be able to clearly define them and give reasons for adhering to them? “Just because” is not a reason. It ceased being a reason when society determined we were of the age of accountability.

Judge – “Why did you murder that man?”

Me – “Just because.”

Judge – “Well that clarifies everything. You are free to go.”

Life is about engagement. Engaging others in dialogs, even uncomfortable ones is how we enlighten each other. Even if you are not an expert or feel that you are not qualified to discuss in depth a given topic you are an expert to discuss in depth how you perceive it affects you. You are the expert when it comes to your own behavior, your ideals and convictions. You are the expert when it comes to you.

If just because is acceptable then allow me to take advantage of you, just because.

Even if the reason is not very sophisticated there should always be a reason for our actions. These cumulative reasons, when shared, are like the small sparks that collectively start a flame which in turn illuminates the dark. Could not these reasons serve as a source of enlightenment to others? Share the knowledge and wisdom you have learned with those who seek it. Be flattered that a query has been made of your reasons and that some may consider them valid. Queries come in many forms and our answers or lack there of should not be formed by preconceived notions of the motives of those that inquire. To quote a proverb from the book of the Christians, “An answer when mild turns away rage”. Share what you know and what you do not. Perhaps by doing so you will add your spark that ignites the flame.