Second and Third Order Effects

Decisions. We all have to make them. We do it every day and there is no avoiding it. We decide to get out of the bed, we decide to get dressed and ready for the day, we decide to eat our breakfast, we decide to do everything. No one can tell us that there is no choice because there is always a choice and we have to make that decision.

The fact is that some decisions are easy to make, some are a lot more difficult. In fact sometimes the hardest part about making decisions is being decisive. We often hesitate on some decisions because (especially when we are with certain people) we don't want to effect their lives or well being in a negative way. Sometimes we make those decisions because we don't want to effect their lives in a positive way. The problem is that no matter what you decide it has an effect... not just on you, but on those you love and those who surround you. Not only will it effect the ones you love but it will effect the ones they love. We call these Second and Third Order Effects in my line of work.

What I find sad is that often we make very critically important decisions without considering the second and third order effects of those decisions. We don't stop to think, "how will this decision effect my wife, or my family, or my loved ones and friends?" We don't think because at that moment it seems so minuscule to think that what we do really matters.

I'm here to tell you that every decision we make, whether big or small will have some effect on those around you. Decisions you make on the fly will effect the decision of a family member or friend. It is the actions that we take that can either aid or destroy a strong and lasting reputation of being reliable and trustworthy.

I guess I only bring this up because I have been struggling with a decision for the past few weeks that will drastically alter the course of not only my life but the lives of my family and friends. That's right this effects you. The funny part is that most of you will never fully know what the topic of debate in my minds parliament is about, but it is only fair I warn you that it will effect our relationship. Talk about your second and third order effects.

See the question is a profound debate. On one hand I have my family and friends and the continued relationships that I have built. On the other I hold a noble cause, but a cause in which methods used are often controversial.

So as I debate this great question in my minds senate halls I must consider all possible outcomes and all possible second and third order effects in order to determine which outcome is going to the best fork in the road for my family and friends.

The fact is, my faithful readers, the decisions I make today, my son will have to live with tomorrow. I can only pray I leave him a blessing and not a curse.

Valkyrie