There's a subtle but essential difference between recognizing a connection and justifying something.
A connection simply acknowledges that one event creates the circumstances for another. There's no blame or cause-and-effect implied, just a sequence. It rained (event 1), so I got wet (event 2).
A justification, instead, suggests that one event caused another, often with the goal of making the second event seem okay. I got wet (event 2, consequences) because it rained (event 1, cause). Or "I yelled at my colleagues because they didn't finish in time", implying that yelling is justified by the delay.
Indeed, there are a lot of causations between events in nature. With human actions, however, things are more complicated. Between events lies a critical space: the space of choice. We can acknowledge the connection between a bad day at work and snapping at a loved one, but that doesn't justify our actions. We had a choice in that space. We could have chosen to take a deep breath and respond differently. We can acknowledge the connection between rain and us getting wet; however, we could have chosen to take cover or use an umbrella.
Too often, we present a connection as a justification, as if it's an unavoidable action-reaction chain. We do that to feel good about our choices. But they still are choices.
While connections exist, we must take responsibility for the choices we make in that space between events. That gives us the power to acknowledge the influence of past events without letting them dictate our present behaviour.
So next time, ask yourself: Am I recognizing a connection, or am I trying to justify my actions?
Taking responsibility for your choices is a first step towards freedom.