What do YOU think taking responsibility for our own existance (lives) really means?

Question

What do others think it means to really take full responsiblity for our lives on earth... do you think over responsibility to others, gets in the way of this? There seems to be such a fine line, all in the name of love and loyalty.

Answer 1

To me, it means taking responsibility for your actions and words, your mistakes and downfalls and all decisions you have made. I think it even comes before our responsibility to others. Take responsibility for yourself first and then it will be easier to help others.

Answer 2

In a way we are our brothers' keepers; because we should look out for one another. But I believe that in the end, only what we have done with our own lives will really matter. I just read Rip Van Winkle, by Washington Irving. Rip was the kind of guy who loved to help others. He looked for people to help. But when it came to his own self and his family, he really didn't do anything. In the end a lot of people liked him, but he also had a wife who hated him, and he ended up abandoning his family for a long time. Of course, this is just a fairy tale.

I guess, in our lives it's important to "make a way" for ourselves. Work hard and be diligent. That's what America was founded on. The early Americans took responsibility. They wanted to get somewhere in their lives. America was the land where anyone could become a somebody. Poor European farmers could come make a life here and become politicians. Peasants could deny their social class and become wealthy business owners.

So when you ask, what does it mean to take responsibility for our lives, I think it means to work your hardest to really achieve the best. It's wonderful to look out for the people you love but that doesn't mean sacrificing your own life. Live life to the fullest. Be diligent. Find God, and trust in Him. I hope that helps you!

Paige