Like many people in the United States, I went through an Ayn Rand period. I read everything she wrote and to this day consider The Fountainhead one of my favorite books. Yes, others may consider Atlas Shrugged her masterpiece but I contend that one of the most romantic literary heroes ever penned was Howard Roark. Who wouldn't want to emulate him...the morally centered artistic genius?
But there is one Ayn Rand story that has stayed with me since first reading it. It was a personal story. Ayn told the story of her sister, Nora, who unlike Ayn struggled with all the choices to be made daily in the US. Nora had spent her life in the Soviet Union and had very few choices both politically and personally. In the middle of her visit to the United States, Nora decided to return to the Soviet Union after becoming overwhelmed during an encounter with a grocery clerk on the toothpaste isle. Nora couldn't decide and worst yet, the clerk wouldn't tell Nora which toothpaste to purchase. Nora was done, that was one too many choices so she packed up and went back to the Soviet Union.
What happens to people when choices become unlimited? I don't mean pie-in-the-sky dreams I mean real choices. Do you retire or do you continue to work? Do you do volunteer work and if so, what will be your cause? If you can live any place, how do you choose? Do you create a fantastic rose garden in your backyard or put in a swimming pool? Do you eat out tonight or cook at home? How do you decided?
Choice can be overwhelming. As a grandmother, I find myself not only watching my grandchildren but also other people's children. And I can tell you, the children I see are being overwhelmed by all the choices they are being asked to make, everyday, all day. Do you want to go with mommy to the store or stay here with Daddy? Do you want cereal for breakfast or do you want oatmeal? Do you want a snack now or do you want to just have some juice? By the end of the day, I understand why so many children have a melt down...they just don't want to make one more decision. The art of decision-making is a learned skill and I believe at times we are asking too much of our children.
I am not advocating a totalitarian lock down of choice in our world. Living in the United States is a gift and I am grateful to be a citizen of this country. But I am acknowledging that infinite choice has the potential to paralyze thinking and action. Decision-making becomes easier if your moral and ethical compass is in place and you are intentional in your decision making process. I believe if you take the time to align your choices with who you are, the happier you will be.
Hugs,
C