Choose Wisely

When I was in 9th grade, I took the basic Civics and Economics class that was required of all students. For the most part, I hated the class in all its tedious glory. However, there was one thing that stood out to me: the concept that you always have a choice. Sure, it was meant in an economic sense, but I took it in a much more general sense.

I became somewhat obsessed with the idea of it, and began applying it in every situation I could. Whenever someone said something along the lines of “oh, but I didn’t have a choice,” I would always chime in “Oh, but you always have a choice!” In fact, I still do so today. I guess that just goes to show how important of a lesson it was for me to learn.

The first major moment I used this reasoning was in 10th grade. My ex, who I realize now, was very toxic. Sure, we get along well now, but our relationship was not the best. It was so taxing, and I felt like there was nothing I could do. But one day I realized that I had a choice. I always have a choice. Sometimes I wonder why it took me so long, seeing as how much I said those words. With that realization, I began to break away from the toxic situation I let myself rot away in. And yes, it was a selfish choice, but it was a good choice for me. It saved me from a lot of misery.

I employed this logic frequently throughout the years, but the biggest recent implication is still ongoing. Sure, it’s easy for me to type it on a computer screen, “I’m non-binary,” or “I go by Kieran,” but it’s so much harder to explain in person. At least, it was until I realized that I didn’t have to explain. It was my choice to explain to people. And I chose not to. Why should I have to explain myself to strangers, or those who don’t know my best interests? Simple, I shouldn’t. So I didn’t. And it isn’t a problem.

Choice is such a liberating experience. A lot of the time, you hear people say it everyday, that they “don't have a choice”. But if you really think about it, you do. You always have the option to say no, or to do things a different way. So think about that the next time you complain about not wanting to do something or go somewhere, or the next time you wonder why you’re doing something you don’t like doing. Because there’s a simple solution awaiting you, a different choice.