Most of our lives simply come down to these two life factors. As said here previously, one always has a choice even in the most challenging and apparently limited or limiting of situations. That choice usually defines us, who we really, truly are. It also reflects our response and attitude toward any given situation, especially the attitude (reflecting whatever values and beliefs) one would prefer to choose.
We define ourselves by our actions, our choices, and finally our basic or core attitudes. These go a long way to expressing and clarifying who we essentially are.