"Antes de poder vivir con otras personas, tengo que vivir conmigo mismo. La única cosa que no se rige por la mayoría es la conciencia de una persona."

This quote is all about the idea that before we can coexist peacefully and authentically with others, we need to be at peace with ourselves. It’s saying that our conscience—that inner voice that tells us right from wrong—doesn't care what everyone else thinks. It’s personal and doesn’t follow the crowd.

Think about it: when you’re alone with your thoughts, it’s just you and your conscience. You can’t escape it. That’s why it’s so crucial to ensure that you’re living in a way that aligns with your values and beliefs. Otherwise, how can you expect to be genuine with others?

This idea traces back to the book "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. Atticus Finch, one of the main characters, says this to his daughter Scout. He’s trying to teach her that personal integrity is more important than following the crowd. This was especially relevant in the context of the book, set in the racially charged American South during the 1930s. Atticus was standing up for what was right, even when it was unpopular and dangerous.

Now, let’s bring this to life with a real-world example. Imagine a whistleblower in a corporation. Everyone around them might be involved in unethical practices—fudging numbers, cutting corners, or worse. It’d be easy to just go along with it, right? After all, “everyone’s doing it.” But if this person listens to their conscience and decides to expose the wrongdoing, they’re living in line with their values. Sure, it’s risky. They might lose their job, face backlash, or even end up in a legal battle. But at the end of the day, they can sleep at night knowing they did what was right.

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our daily lives? Start by getting to know yourself. What are your core values? What do you believe in? Once you’re clear on that, make decisions that align with those beliefs. It’s not always going to be easy. Sometimes you’ll face pressure to conform. But remember, your conscience doesn’t play by those rules. It’s your personal compass.

Let’s illustrate this with a scenario you might find relatable. Picture Jane, a high school student. She’s at a party, and all her friends are drinking—even though they’re all underage. Jane doesn’t really want to join in; it’s against her values and she knows it’s wrong. But the pressure is intense. She’s worried about what her friends will think. In that moment, if Jane listens to her conscience and decides to stick to her principles, she’s living authentically. She might face some teasing or feel left out temporarily, but in the long run, she’ll respect herself more. And that’s invaluable.

So next time you’re faced with a tough decision, take a moment. Tune out the noise and listen to your inner voice. It’s got your back. After all, living with yourself is a lifelong relationship—make sure it's one you’re proud of.