We are either. We go along, day to day, performing the task designated to us. Some greater than others, some so insignificant that they are mere busy work. In times of war, we fight. In times of peace we live. We win, we lose, we break, we heal. Puppets on strings are we? Or are we unrealized masters of our own fate? Circumstances of birth matter little once we have found our purpose. Artificial or natural, doctored or unadulterated, man, beast, or something in between, we exist.
Once the first breath of life is drawn, it is ours to control. Strings may bind and they may bind tightly, but they can be cut. Weild the blades of strength, conviction, will, and courage without fear. Form a path for your own life with unfaltering ferocity. Do not yeild and do not allow yourself to be consumed by distraction. You have a goal, don't you? Cut down all that stand in your way as you drive for it.
It seems that he can't see the tree for the forest. As stubborn and reckless as he is, I know he will succeed. He is strong.
He's slightly cute when he over-thinks.