Just Because You Can

 
     Just because you can doesn't mean you should.  We have to consider the consequences.  Also, be aware of who made your Should List.  Many people have contributed: parents, society, government, religion, peer group, friends.  The list goes on.  Be sure you have the final say.
     Our parents and family members, perhaps from many generations back, form our earliest list of should and should nots.  This list may be based on survival, tradition, religion, and common sense.  Realize it is their list, and you have the right to form your own.
     Our society has established certain norms which have similarities and differences of other societies around the world.   As we become exposed to other groups, we can better understand ourselves and others.  Every society lives under a form of government from dictatorships to democracies.  Here in the USA, we are exposed to various candidates and are free to vote for representatives who we hope will uphold and design laws to protect our freedom.
     Religions also have their lists of shalls and shall nots.  Some lists were formed thousands of years ago but may or may not be complete or valid for today.  Many people believe their scriptures come from the highest authority and should be followed.  Here in the USA, we have the freedom to follow religion or not.
     Many forces influence our thinking.  It is difficult to go against what your family has taught you, what your society expects, what religion professes, what your peer group and friends do.  We need to realize that we can decide what we should and shouldn't do.