M. Suzanne Terry

My whole life is in boxes right now. Even though I have a clear plan that’s all mapped out, I’ve reached the point where the newness has worn off and the awareness that it’s hard work has kicked in.

It’s easy to get lost in boxes.

So today, I’m linking up with Marvia Davidson to talk about values, as a reminder that most of what I value can’t fit in a box (although some of it can. Carefully. If you pack it well and don’t let anyone else carry it).

1. I value relationships. People have rallied around me to help by taking things I no longer need, listening to me rant when things fall through, and offering advice when I have uncharacteristic bouts of indecision. They also let me feed them, which is one of my favorite things to do.

2. I value knowledge. I’m tired of snap judgment. I actually got a freelance tip to write clickbait articles, a tip I promptly disregarded, as this is not something I would ever be interested in doing. It seems that the more information we have available to us, the less likely we are to take it in. I want to remember to take it in.

3. I value loyalty. It’s easy to throw someone else under the bus to make yourself look innocent. It’s harder but ultimately more rewarding to take responsibility for the part you played and let the rest speak for itself.

4. I value fairness. The world’s injustice is often seen as such a given that people don’t expect themselves or others to do anything to fight it. Life may be unfair, but that doesn’t mean I have to be. I think this is the most important reason to speak truth. Of all the hills there are to die on, fairness and justice are probably my hill of choice.

5. I value legacy. So much of who I am and what I value comes from where, how, and by whom I was taught. Legacy doesn’t have to be familial, although for me a large part of it is. Many of my greatest loves were born on a farm in west Texas. I see it in pictures and wrap it in quilts. I learn who I am from those who paved the way. I unlearn some things to make choices more in line with who I hope I’m becoming.

What do you value?