(V) VALUES (#AtoZChallenge 2019)

I often wonder how people become what they become? Do genes define our traits? Does our upbringing shape us? Or is it a mix of the two?

I notice and read about people doing wrong to others even if they themselves were not a victim. At other times people who have been victimized become the champions of removing the cause of suffering from society. While there is a third category who prefer inaction and accept their fates. 

What governs us? Are we destined to do what we do?! Or is it due to the values we have imbibed in our growing years?

I am not sure what the right answer is, but I believe that values play a huge role. 

Regarding my personal belief system and values - nothing was explicitly taught to me ever. I inculcated the traits and characteristics through sheer observation of my family members, teachers and friends.

For instance, my maternal grandfather was deeply spiritual. His actions and words exuded universal values, I try to follow his path even today. In contrast, my maternal grandmother was religious. Whereas I am both religious and spiritual. 

My father is a  man of few spoken words and serious towards his work. My mother is a carefree soul who tries to have a work-life balance interspersed with fun. My personality has both their traits. I am serious when needed but also steal my moments of fun and frolic now and then.

My value system, ethics and traits have been assimilated from what I observed around me.

Action speaks louder than words - Children learn what they see their parents do! 

Leading by example is the best way! I hope to do the same. I wish as a family we create an environment for my little kid so that she learns the best from all of us and has the ability to differentiate right from wrong and chose good over evil. 

What are your thoughts on this? What shapes us or defines our personal traits? 

#AtoZChallenge 2019

(These AtoZ Challenge posts pertain to my thought process, physical and mental changes, stress levels & mechanisms to cope, perspective, journey and experience as a first-time mother who has yet not delivered her baby.)

Read A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U