The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd; indeed in view of the silliness of the majority of mankind, a widespread belief is more likely to be foolish than sensible.
Never make a defense or an apology until you are accused.
We don't know a millionth of one percent about anything.
If you want to be respected, you must respect yourself.
Our lives teach us who we are.
What if this weren't a hypothetical question?
If we fall, we don't need self-recrimination or blame or anger - we need a reawakening of our intention and a willingness to recommit, to be whole-hearted once again.