Reason vs Excuse

What is the difference between a reason and an excuse?

They are very similar yet subtly different. A reason is defined as “a cause, explanation or justification for an action or event” while an excuse is defined as “a reason or explanation put forward to justify or defend a fault or offence’. Although, these two words are synonymous (as per my trusty google thesaurus), their definitions create a different perception of each. A reason is justified, where as an excuse is an attempt to justify. One is  objective or factual while the other is more subjective (open to opinion or debate).

Sifu Brinker got me thinking about this yesterday. What are my reasons for not blogging and are they reasons or excuses?

As I logged into my blog today, I see my last post was March 17. WOW!  That was a long time ago.  It is definitely true that it gets easier and easier not to do something the more you don’t do it. I recall April very well and it was a very difficult time. Although in hindsight, blogging may have been helpful during this time,  honestly, It was the last thing on my mind. In my mind, I had my reason. But at point in time does a reason become an excuse? After some nine months without a post, I can tell you my reason transitioned into an excuse.

Restarting something that you have quit is difficult. It is best to not put yourself  in the situation of needing a restart, however, if you do find yourself there, do not hesitate. The longer you delay the harder it gets.

Thanks for reading.

Mike