As we pace ourselves through powerful questions for 2018, let’s see what questions we can consider for week two. These questions come from Bob Tiede at At Leading With Questions, summarized by Marc Chernoff as Thought Provoking Questions to Ask Yourself in 2018. Each question was offered by wisdom leaders around the nation and world; and will relate to this month’s lifeskill, Relationships & Core Values. Hopefully, week two inquiries will keep your mind moving . . . with some encouraging and thought-provoking commentary! So, let’s move on to seven more questions.
Question 1: Would you break the law to save a loved one?
At first thought, I would say absolutely not. Yet, what does it mean “to save a loved one?” What if a particular law is unfair and not justified regarding my loved one? This can really get messy in this world. I guess it all depends on the danger being faced, what effect the law is having on my loved one, who enforces the law, and the courts who decree judgment based on that law. It also very much depends on my loved ones’ accountability, words, and actions that may have caused them to be in the mess or danger they are in. I would first seek the whole truth about the situation, try to work through the legal system to defend them in whatever way I could. And we both would need to definitely depend on God’s mercy and intervention on our behalf.
Question 2: What do you want most?
To live a life filled with purpose, joy, understanding, and love that can forgive, be forgiveness, and offer hope and healing to those around me. Can I add health and strength throughout my senior years? Sure!
Question 3: Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things?
I try not to worry about either. Why? First, because I am well aware of our human nature. We do make mistakes, knowingly and unknowingly. I find when I am willing to have compassion on others and are willing to forgive, I then more likely receive compassion and forgiveness. With that core value, I believe doing the right thing always offers us the opportunity to do things right.
Question 4: Can you describe your life in a six word sentence?
Now, this one is a hard one for this writer who loves words! But I will try. “My life is challenging but fulfilling.” I leave this question with an addendum for those also struggling with life challenges. May those challenges be seen as opportunities to grow and succeed. And no matter how serious or life-threatening, I pray you find that “but” in your ending sentence giving you hope in each moment, and dreams fulfilled in your future. See, I told you; I love words!
Question 5: What is the most defining moment of your life thus far?
That at 73 years young I am able to do what I am now doing! As we all gracefully age, we discover those most defining moments thus far actually become this moment.
Question 6: Why do we think of others the most when they’re gone?
I assume this question infers when someone passes away. If so, I think of them more often not just of the loss, but also how important they were in my life. My memories of them help me appreciate those who are still with me. I am challenged to make sure they know I think of them often and care for them. I am also challenged to resolve any wrong between us before either of us leave this earth.
Question 7: Is it more important to love or be loved? This is an odd question to me.
It isn’t one or the other. Both are important and mutually connected. When I love, I am then loved in that moment. When I know I am loved, I offer love in that moment of gratitude for being loved. No matter whether love is given or received, both experience wholeness, even healing.
Now, it’s your turn again!
If you missed Week One questions, click here to follow along.