React or Respond?

In the Oxford and Collins Dictionary I realise these two words have a similar meaning.....ah, but I would like to be different! So here it is:

To React is to have tunnel vision.
You see the tree and not the forest!
You make a choice based on the consequences which you can see will benefit you almost immediately.
Your decision is calculated on the fact that when you remove the person or thing which causes you pain, inconvenience and sacrifice, your life becomes easier --- for now.

Eg. my friend's son did not like the new scout leader. Guess what she told him to do?
Quit the group!
This mum worked out that if he doesn't have this activity, she will no longer hear his
complaints, she need not rush from work every week to get him to the group on time, and
he will have more time for his schoolwork.

To Respond is to see the big picture.
You see the forest and you don't zoom in on one tree.
You don't make a rash decision based on your emotions --- you reflect on the situation, you look at the long-term effects.
Even if things are uncomfortable and inconvenient at the moment, you persevere or position yourself such that your choice will make a positive impact on your life --- in the long run.

So...I would say ... to react is a sign of immaturity;
to respond is a sign of maturity!

To react is like a woman who spends more time and money planning for the romantic wedding than the real life-long marriage.

To respond is like a woman who would love to get married but is willing to wait until the suitable one comes along!