It is very common during a floor test in parliament or senate that some members abstain either by design or inertia. Abstain because you are not certain about the next step or the future. Staying away or hiding from taking action, casting a vote, or showing up to dispense your responsibility is never a solution if the intent is progress, resolution or making things better.
The better way is to show up. Even when things are unclear or uncertain. Even when you are not well informed. Engage with the situation or problem. Find a point of view that you hitherto did not have.
” Man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides. One of the greatest regrets in life is being what others would want you to be, rather than being yourself. You can keep as quiet as you like, but one of these days somebody is going to find you “.
The ability to stand naked in our own truth is an incredibly salve and is the boldest statement you can make about your integrity and authenticity, both of which are at a high premium in the current social media calibrated culture that we find ourselves in.
So, show up and ship out. Be out there. Hiding isn’t a great place to be especially if you are seeking the true and best version of yourself.