Tuesday, May 1, 2007

"Do not follow where the path may lead..."

"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."- Ralph Waldo Emerson

I found the above quote in an excellent book I am reading titled The Girls by Lori Lansens. (I will post about the novel when I finish it.)

The quote above started me thinking... I have always thought of myself as a make-your-own-trail sort of a girl. But am I really? I totally imitate other people that I think have good idea or great success. (Starting this blog is one great example- thanks playgroup buddies.)

Where's the line? I mean, do you have to be so totally different to make your own trail? Or just combine qualities you admire in others in your own unique way? Plus, of course, add your own spice to the mix. Maybe I am not quite so individual as I have always imagined.

And maybe that's a good thing- I mean a little conformity can go a long way to improving relations with other human beings. It's good to relate well to others and for that you have to be at least a little similar....

Hmmmm, I am just wondering maybe there's something to following a path and taking little side trips???

3 comments:

Jennifer said...

Great post, Jennie!

I really need to get that book, but really, who am I kidding?! I'm not going to have time to read it! Well, maybe I will...

Welcome to the land of blogging. It's addicting, watch out!

Sorry it's taken so long for me to visit!

Heather said...

I love Emerson too!

Fabulous post! I love me a thinking post every now and then. :-P I mean, my brain has to get exercise somehow.

I can't wait to get the book and start reading. I'm looking forward to our book club discussion again.

And your so welcome for the blog addiction. hehe!

I think we are all on a BIG path...everyone on this planet is on the BIG path. But like you side, there are many side paths that run in a different direction, but parallel...if that makes any sense whatsoever? There's woowoo Heather again!

Heather said...

and I obviously can't can't use proper grammar today. The King is breathing down my neck to start cleaning house and I'm in a hurry. hehe!