The Right Kind of Independence
THE independence which is defiant and blustering is disagreeable always, and usually lacks that degree of self-confidence which it assumes to have attained. The independence which wins, because it merits, respect is calm, dignified and even-tempered. It does not underestimate the value of the approval of others, but it cannot be driven to do anything which it sees to be unworthy of itself in order to secure that approval. Its temporary comfort may be diminished while it is misunderstood, but its foundations are not disturbed. We are what we are, whether we get credit for being or not, and God knows it. There is no slavery more miserable than the bondage of those who continually are asking, in timid concern, "What will people say?"—Selected.