We let every criticism soak in. Every rumor, every comment, every sideways glance—it all sticks to us. Before long, we’re waterlogged with worry about what others think. But the duck doesn’t waste a second on that. He knows who he is and what he’s meant to do. He paddles on, unruffled, built for his element.

There’s a certain kind of strength in not caring too much. I don’t mean apathy or cynicism—the kind of “I don’t care” that shuts people out or becomes cold and contemptuous.  I’m talking about spiritual freedom, a detachment to the world that lets you live with peace and integrity no matter what others say or do.

We live in a world addicted to outrage and approval. Every opinion has to be posted, every post has to be liked, and every disagreement turns into an occasion to rage. But there’s a virtue in stepping back from all that. The person who learns not to care so much about reputation or reaction begins to breathe easier. 

Jesus lived that way. He cared deeply about His Father’s will, but He didn’t live for applause, and neither did He flinch when the crowd turned against Him. The early Christians were the same way. They could face persecution with joy because they’d already settled who they belonged to. They were built for their element. 

There’s a peace that comes when you learn to let things roll off your back. When your heart is anchored in what’s eternal, the world’s opinions lose their weight. That’s not indifference—it’s holiness of purpose. The duck don’t care.