Responsible Victims

Last night, Nightline examined the impact one year later of Bill Cosby's incendiary comments urging young blacks and their parents to take personal responsibility for their lives. Speaking for the "conservative" side, author Shelby Steele said that even if fellow blacks have been victims of racism or injustice, they are not absolved of the responsibility–or, even better, the opportunity–to improve their lives.

Indeed. To one degree or another, we've all faced slights, barriers, discouragements, and disappointments. To nurse these wounds or internalize them is to remain a perpetual victim. But to acknowledge them and then purposefully move on is the first step to leading a fulfilling and responsible life.