We can check Mapquest.com, our
local map or atlas, but what we will find is that the “High Road”
is where our personal integrity meets the real world.
If you have been looking for the “High Road” lately as you
struggle through life’s challenges, the behaviors of others, and
try to stomach the political ads on television, the radio, in the
newspaper, and on the Internet, you are not alone.
We so often get caught up in reacting to temporary situations
that we lose ourselves in the moment, and sometimes even allow the
feeling to last for several moments. You know what I am talking
about don’t you? Why did someone else’s child receive special
treatment? Why did that other gal get the raise or promotion and
not me? How dare that person cut in line? Can you believe the way
that guy is driving? He is going to kill someone. Why can’t just
one politician simply promote what he or she will do and not stoop
to what evil the other candidate has done or not done?
When deciding to take the “High Road” the key word in the last
paragraph is “temporary.” Go back and read the first sentence
again, ‘temporary situations.’ The next time you find yourself
feeling slighted, offended, intruded upon, neglected or left out,
take a minute to first breathe and then remember that, this too
shall pass, it’s really only a temporary situation.
However, how we choose to react or possibly overreact, could
create a permanent or long-term problem, much worse than the
fleeting incident that initially had us so upset. Our reputation is
what we have done, but our character is who we are. So, take the
“High Road” it is so much better, there is far less traffic, and
you will find the drive more relaxing and rather enjoyable.
Now I am not suggesting we let the bad guys get away with
outright wrongs, no way. I think we should pursue justice whenever
appropriate. What I am suggesting is that when we use discernment
and bring clarity to the everyday battles of life we will most
likely find that we can take the “High Road” and let the little
things slide.
Remember this too, the “High Road” isn’t just a metaphorical
place or figurative statement meant to appease the angry or
frustrated heart and mind, it is as literal as Main Street USA. The
“High Road” is where our personal integrity meets the real
world.
Will you join me on the “High Road?” Thanks again for all of
your emails and kind remarks when we have an opportunity to meet in
person, this community is awesome. Let me know about your own
personal “High Road” at msnorton@comcast.net and make it
a better than good week.
Michael Norton, a resident of Highlands Ranch, is the former
president of the Zig Ziglar organization and CEO and founder of
www.candogo.com.
