"You can choose your actions, but you can't choose your consequences."
This genius quote was brought to my attention, by Stephanie (my landlord and sister) a couple summers ago. We were discussing classroom managment and reinforcing the life skills of being accountable, responsible, etc. Oddly enough "my kids" seem to have it down, whereas my 31 year old sister continues to be surprised by the fact her choices have consequences. As though she's above the rule. Two key examples:
1.) I've been trying to be better about locking the door when I'm in the house. My mom always told me I was precious, and I fear the word is getting out and I chance stranger danger at my door. Steph tends to lock the door as well. The difference between us is every time I'm sitting inside and hear her fumbling for her keys I know I'll be greeted with a sigh, eye roll, and a "really? thanks for getting off your a** to unlock the door." Everytime. Whereas I fumble in the dark, unlock it with minimal issues and enter with a sunny disposition. Never am I rude or annoyed she's trying to stay safe. Maybe I'm just a better person...
2.) Wednesday is garbage and recycling day. I do garbage, and Steph does recycling. Why? We had a cleaning draft one day where we chose our responsibilities. Oddly enough her "go green persona" goes away each Wednesday. She RARELY remembers to put out the recycling, which has left me writing or verbalizing "gentle reminders." She's also gotten aggressive about this approach, so I've resorted to shoving all the recycling into a garbage bag if she neglects her duty.
She never reads my posts, but on the off chance she does here's a gentle reminder, Hicks:
"You can choose your actions, but you can't choose your consequences."
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