Never acting unwillingly nor hesitant is the result of a clean conscience which itself stems from a coherence between values and actions. It's more of an utopia, an ideal, and even being able to say "I'm in complete congruence with my inner convictions." in 70 or 80% of one`s actions is to be seen as a huge success. And yet, doubt is a nagging companion most of the time. The action itself does not determine nor control all its outcomes and effects, and even good, pure intentions can cause the opposite. Hence, discovering "consideration" as a core value for oneself bears many advantages. Starting with consideration means in first place taking a step back and contemplating possible effects from different points of view or perspectives, an act which takes the dangerous acceleration of the emotion partially out of the equation. Consideration protects in first order the the society or community, but also oneself, the own being and living, from harmful decisions. Not entirely, and yet noticeable. Additionally, it leads to a certain autonomy of the considerate, granted that it doesn't overwhelm the spirit, paralyzing it.
Link to Book 3 from the Meditations
It's the first time in a long while that I'm writing more than involuntarily encrypted notes. I gave my best to make it somewhat readable.
Involuntarily encrypted notes? Your normal handwriting is only legible to you as well? :D
Absolutely, yes. A lot of times, even I can't read them.
Oh my O_O
Your handwriting is really lovely - proper cursive too!
I guess it's one thing to think you can live in moral congruence with your actions, but it's not always possible, as you say - it's rather idealistic. Sometimes you have to make choices that don't quite seem authentic or you act without thinking and regret it later. You go through life trying your best and that's probably all we can ask of ourselves. Being 'considered' and not acting or judging compulsively is a good start hey? It seems more Buddhist too. There's a few MA ideas I find align with Buddhism pretty well!