Do you think we’re shaped more by our experiences or by who we are? – now there is a good question from the daily prompt.

I think that our experiences really shape who we are from a very young age and throughout life. That’s my personal take on it. Events in my life shaped a lot of who I am. Values and respect were things my mom taught me early and I still carry with me today.

Early experiences in life almost cost me dearly. Not to be repeated and again make up how I proceed today. There were also painful experiences early on which changed me.

There are exceptions. There are certain points in life where something within us might rise and shine. There is an innate ability in us all to know right from wrong. Most of us have an innate sense of compassion.

Those things within us are drawn out or suppressed by our experiences and teachings I’m guessing. I don’t have degrees studying the human mind. Just going by what I’ve seen over the decades.

Experiences shaped my decision-making process. Becoming a father and grandfather changed my life and who I am.

I’m shaped by genetics. I am who I am by my experiences.