Many times, this quote is referenced in the context of war and the soldier’s duty. Texts have suggested that men at war will continue to do battle, because they fear not staying and fulfilling their duty more than the war itself. How would they be perceived if they ran away? How would they feel about themselves if they didn’t honor their commitment and show up for their mission and fellow man?
I like to apply this idea to everyday life and why we do the things we do. Some of us stay in situations that no longer serve us because we are afraid to do something else. I have certainly stayed in situations way too long, simply because I was afraid of what would happen if chose to do something else.
But let’s look at obligations we have. And by that, I mean ones that we choose, not what others expect us to do, and we just do it because they expect it. When we choose to take on responsibilities or obligations, we are making a conscious choice and a commitment. I know for me, if I say I am going to do something to someone and I don’t do it, it causes me more harm than anything else. To me, I would rather go through something that frightens me, than be the person who makes false promises to the people I care about.
All that being said, it is really important to know your limits and what you are willing to commit to before giving someone your word. And it’s okay to take your time and think through what you are willing to commit to.
