The Power of Buzzwords
Buzzwords are a form of mental prompts that empower you to look to yourself for answers and propel you to action in a positive and proactive way. This month, I share these famous words from American politician and orator William Jennings Bryan from his speech titled “America’s Mission” delivered in Washington, D.C., on February 22, 1899 — “Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.” Given the world’s current state, his message is particularly relevant today and is one that can be applied to our day-to-day living. Take strength in knowing that your deliberate actions, not random events, shape your future. “Choice, Not Chance,” is a buzzword to remind you — the power is in your hands!
This month’s buzzword is:
Choice, Not Chance
One of my favourite books is Life’s Greatest Lessons: 20 Things That Matter by Hal Urban. It has been a constant go to book throughout my life, for Urban shares his insights and wisdom in such an honest and open way. Written initially for his children and his students, he, as a father and teacher, shares what he believes are the important lessons to living a fulfilled life. Chapter 4 of his book, titled “We Live by Choice, Not by Chance,” is what inspired the buzzword “Choice, Not Chance.” I found this chapter exciting and liberating, as it helped me attain freedom and strength with the knowledge that each of us has the ability to choose. The buzzword “Choice, Not Chance” directs us to the knowledge that our lives and the decisions we make about how we live our lives are in our very own hands.