Monday 9 January 2012

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree


This phrase is almost certainly applied most often now to someone with obvious failings, the saying states the problem was simply passed along from parent to child. The notion is similar to the older 'Like father, like son,' and 'like mother, like daughter. Who are we to judge someone’s character due to their parent’s mistakes? Why do we have a stereotypical view that behaviour is inherent? 
Character is defined in the oxford dictionary as “the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual.” We as individuals fail to realise that IQ and common sense are not innate. Look at the likes of Malcolm X who happens to be one of history’s iconic figures. Malcolm’s X’s father was outspoken, promiscuous and an alcoholic, but if we look at how Malcolm used these characteristics to his strength we all would be mesmerised. Occasionally negative aspects or individuals can help strengthen character. Malcolm used his father’s outspoken nature and neglect to his potency and fought for the rights for Black America.

What makes us unique is more meaningful than DNA and fingerprints. Character defines us as an individual, what we put in is what we get out. Our passion, vision, sincerity, ideas, ethics, spirit and wit defines us which outlines our character.

Who knows, it could have been a windy day when the apple fell far from the tree.

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