"We make our own way in the world, we fight our own battles, we are not looking for any handouts, we do not want something for nothing. It threatens our self-esteem, our self-reliance."(F. Buechner "Listening to Your Life" p. 143)
I love the myth of the self made man, the rugged individualism that makes our country "great." I call it a myth because in the real world, very few make their own way. Most people start with parents who create opportunities for us to grow. We have mentors and teachers along the way who give us knowledge and encouragement, and often clear debris from our path that we are too blind to see ourselves.
We usually don't fight battles alone. We seek advocates. Or at least an ear to bend. And we will come to the rescue of others or take up causes just because.
We may claim to not be looking for handouts, but we're always looking for that "deal." Or sometimes living by the motto if it's free it's for me. Of course the reality is that nothing is really free, but all of us look for some special treatment or favor at some point in our lives.
The truth actually is that we are all much more connected and dependent on others than we may care to admit. And that's not the end of the world as long as others can depend on us as well.
Blessings,
Ed
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