Follow your Heart

​Not sure about this reading thing.  So much I see and like, and think it deserves more thinking about.  I just read four words and I really like it.  “Rule by the heart.”
So often I make decisions and am influenced by the opinion of others.  For example, in the eyes of many, someone can seem a lost cause or surplus to requirements.  That is, they will not assist in the social climb, and they may have a personality that does not lend itself to friends.  Or they have done something perceived as unacceptable.  Generally, there is a perception there is nothing to be gained by the association.
Yet every person without exception needs another.  Unfortunately, sometimes every “other” is suddenly busy.  It is too easy to have no time for the one who needs it most. 
It is always good to take into account the opinion of others.  Sometimes it is just my pigheadedness and I need to be told (politely of course).  But opinions are not always right.   Sometimes advice is not to be followed.  Often my motivation is not what it should be.
That is not to say the heart and the head are mutually exclusive.  But to me it is all about who leads.  My head is inclined to say “safety first,” while my heart tends to be the risk taker.
That is why I like “rule by the heart.”  My head, others, and circumstances may all be saying one thing, but I need to follow my heart.  If my heart is screwed up, I will know soon enough.  I would rather make a mistake following my heart, than do nothing based on my head and realize I could have averted perhaps dire consequences.
To me, a heart of flesh is desired above a heart of stone.  In many ways having a heart of stone is easier.  Everything bounces off.  I do not need to be vulnerable at all.  I just need to look out for number one and ensure I am happy.  Those around me serve my ends.  I can appear to be magnanimous and giving, but others are a means to my ends only.  I may not see it, but my actions are an anagram.
On the other hand, when I have a heart of flesh I can be hurt.  In the human body there is a lot of protection around the heart.  To do someone in, others go for the heart.  To my mind there is a reason for the protection.  It seems the heart is the seat of life.
Following my heart can be a lonely place.  It can be that no one else understands.  It can appear I am crazy to do it.  It can be the exact opposite of a consensus thing (but I do think those in the know will be in the know – even if it is eventually).  Still, I need to be true to myself.  I know I am good at setting myself up to be shot down.  Yet I prefer that every time, then to remain in the bunker unengaged.