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Margreet de Heer's avatar

I love these. Especially that last one about death, it stood out already for me when I read the books as a teen. As to Question 1: I like to think that intent is often more important than the outcome. When I know my intent is clear, I'm less fazed when the desired outcome differs.

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Michael Voy's avatar

Question #3 it depends. A hypothetical scenario that come to mind is -as follows. A man in a jungle on a dark night is being chased by a predator when his flashlight goes dark. The answer depends on many factors. But I am wondering what is courageous and what is foolish? Can a foolish act be rationalized as being courageous?

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Deborah Healey 🇬🇧's avatar

What a great answer.. Agreed.

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Michael Voy's avatar

With respect to question #2, the choices determine the responsibilities. Most human activities have societally imposed responsibilities.

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Deborah Healey 🇬🇧's avatar

.To assess fully never ignore.intuition

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Deborah Healey 🇬🇧's avatar

Absolutely.. Well said.

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Michael Voy's avatar

With respect to question #1, It means assuming risk. Part two perform a risk assessment using the information available or obtainable.

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Dave Wise (Neoteric Wood Art)'s avatar

We learn about life from our past as we live going forward.

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Marcus' Mosaic's avatar

I just made a post about a question you had down below.

How should we prioritize our limited time on Earth when faced with endless choices, and what responsibilities come with that freedom?

Anyone who is interested, check it out!

https://marcusxiao.substack.com/p/freedom-of-choice-and-its-responsibilities

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Jean Shabkie Fessenden's avatar

Wisdom indeed, thank you Mr. J.R.R. Tolkien

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DJK's avatar

Tolkien’s writing is so poignant. Thanks for reminding me.

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Leborah Spence's avatar

#1. Pursuing an unknown path is an act of courage that mirrors the interplay between choice and consequence in storytelling and quantum physics. J.R.R. Tolkien exemplifies this in The Lord of the Rings, where characters like Frodo take uncertain steps that ultimately shape their destinies and realities, illustrating the concept of "eucatastrophe"—unexpected good arising from challenges.

Similarly, quantum entanglement shows how interconnected actions ripple across systems, influencing outcomes in ways we can’t predict. As Tolkien said, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” By embracing uncertainty with intention and adaptability, we transform it into a source of growth and creativity.

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One Brilliant Arc (OBA)'s avatar

Tolkien is so wise. And his writing about life is true and beautiful. Thank you for sharing these quotes!

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