Many of us like the idea of having influence.

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Influence either through fame or fortune.

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We feel it would be great to have so many people listening to us.

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Yet we often forget to consider what come with that influence.

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It can feel wonderful to know that millions of people will listen to our words.

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We think that by having such a reach we will have a positive impact on the world.

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But what happens when we make a mistake?

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What happens when we spread information that we believe is true at the time, yet turns out not to be?

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Do we ever think about the consequences of having such a huge reach?

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To have influence is often equated with power.

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The power to change minds or to influence events.

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Yet with that power comes a great deal of responsibility.

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Many people will use that influence irresponsibility for they are only interest in self promotion.

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Yet when we are a person of conscience, we can also feel the burden of the responsibility.

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What if we believe something is true today and tomorrow we find out we are wrong?

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Will we go back out and tell everyone we made a mistake?

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Can we live with that embarrassment?

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Can we face up to the fact that what we put out to our following before, we now know was incorrect?

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It is not easy to do so.

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When we've spent so much time building up our reputation and our reach, we naturally shy away from anything that can damage it.

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Yet as responsible people, as people with a heart and a conscience, we have no choice.

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That is why the burden is actually on us to be careful what we do with our influence.

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Examples of people who use their influence carelessly are all around us.

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We have seen it done in small ways and big ways.

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So for people who take stock of the consequences of our actions, it is not an easy path.

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We know that our influence over our tribe is the most precious thing.

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Being protective of our influence comes naturally to us.

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This is why we are extra careful what we cultivate and spread to our tribe.

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It is an important reminder for all of us.

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With great power and influence comes great responsibility.

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And even if our influence is not so large, we still have a responsibility.

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To our friends, our family, and all of our loved ones.

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Have you been responsible with your influence?

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Have you been careful to use your influence appropriately?

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~ Sam Liebowitz, The Conscious Consultant