The Source Is Character

"Character - the willingness to accept responsibility for one's own life - is the source from which self-respect springs." - Joan Didion, writer

Accepting responsibility for my life has been one of the most difficult things I've ever done. It may not be that difficult for other people, but I honestly struggled with this for many years. I am so glad that I don't struggle with this anymore. Life is much easier when I take responsibility for my actions.

It's funny how my perception changes as time goes by. I always thought I did have character. I thought that I was taking responsibility for my own life. I really wasn't doing that though. I was really blaming everyone else in my life for my own bad choices. This temporarily took the focus off of me and allowed me to "stew" in my anger at all the wrongs that others were committing against me. I needed to turn things around.

Over time, I've come to realize that taking ownership of my own life is the best choice for me. I'm still making amends to those closest to me whom I've hurt in the past, but I've been able to accept responsibility today. I am truly grateful for the friends who showed me the error of my ways and how I could go about regaining my self-respect. Thank you to all who helped me.