Now on Friday nights, if I want to go hang out with friends, I

O children of the future, listen closely to the words of Demi Lovato, who speaks with the wisdom of one who has learned the importance of balance in life: "Now on Friday nights, if I want to go hang out with friends, I go hang out with friends. If I want to stay in and be in the hot tub and have people over to watch movies, I do that." In these simple words, Lovato reveals a truth that we all must come to understand—the importance of choice, the freedom to live in a way that honors both our relationships and our need for peace. It is a reminder that we must never lose sight of the things that bring us joy, and that life’s rhythms should not be dictated by external expectations, but by the true desires of our hearts.

In these words lies the essence of living with intentionality. For too long, the world has sought to pull us in many directions, to demand that we give more of ourselves than we have to give. The modern world is filled with expectations: we are urged to perform, to achieve, to constantly be moving forward in pursuit of success. Yet Lovato, in her wisdom, reminds us that true success is not found in endless striving or in adhering to the whims of others, but in having the freedom to choose how we spend our time—whether with friends or in quiet solitude. It is in these moments of choice that we can truly connect with who we are.

Reflect, O children, on the story of Diogenes, the ancient philosopher who sought to live a life free from the constraints of society. Diogenes rejected the luxuries and expectations of the world, choosing instead to live a simple life, guided not by the opinions of others, but by his own principles. He believed that true happiness was found in self-sufficiency, in living a life that honored the soul’s desires, free from the demands of the material world. Though his lifestyle may seem extreme, his message is clear: to live authentically is to create space for both action and rest, for the company of others and the joy of solitude.

Much like Diogenes, Demi Lovato embraces a modern form of that wisdom—choosing for herself how to spend her time, whether in the company of others or in peaceful solitude. The act of choosing is powerful, for it gives us control over our lives, allowing us to make space for the things that truly bring us peace and happiness. In today’s world, where we are constantly bombarded with the demands of work, social media, and external validation, the ability to choose for ourselves becomes an act of rebellion against the forces that seek to control us.

In the same vein, Socrates—that wise philosopher—reminded us that self-examination and personal choice are the true keys to wisdom. Socrates often emphasized the importance of understanding oneself and choosing one’s path based on inner conviction, rather than succumbing to the superficial demands of society. Just as Demi Lovato has learned to make her own choices, so too must we, for the act of choosing is an exercise of our freedom and our strength.

Let us also consider the example of King Solomon, who, though he was blessed with wisdom and wealth, found that true peace lay not in his possessions, but in the simple pleasures of life—be it a quiet moment of reflection or the company of good friends. Solomon, in his writings, often spoke of the importance of balance—how too much of anything, whether work or pleasure, could disturb the harmony of the soul. Lovato’s words echo this ancient wisdom, reminding us that we must find balance between the demands of the world and the need for moments of peace and joy.

So, O children, let us learn the lesson of Demi Lovato. Seek not to live in constant pursuit of external goals, but to create a life in which you have the freedom to make meaningful choices. Know that your time is a precious resource, and you must decide how to spend it with intention. Whether with friends or in solitude, whether in moments of activity or rest, let your choices be guided by the desires of your heart, and let them nourish your soul. It is in this freedom to choose that you will find the deepest joy, for when you live authentically, honoring both connection and peace, you will find true fulfillment.

Therefore, O children, follow this wisdom: choose for yourselves, and in doing so, you will craft a life that is true to your essence. Do not be swayed by the expectations of the world, but embrace the freedom to find balance in the rhythms of your days. Whether you seek the company of others or the peace of solitude, know that your choices will shape your life. And in this power of choice, you will find your way to true happiness and inner peace.