Passively Following in Life–or Actively Leading?

“Most of us are passive followers who fear the disapproval of our peers and the wrath of authorities.” –Sam Keen

When I read this quote, it hit me like a brick, realizing that for most of my life I have lived it through a screen of conditioning, passivity, and fear of what others (especially authority figures) thought of me or because of me. I desire to be a leader, and influencer, yet feel the gravitational pull of just being rank-n-file, that lets others tell me what to do and what life to live.  The only One I want to set up in my life to do that is God.  It’s time for me to be authentic and not worry about the perceptions of others that I cannot control.