If we can be convinced that reading or discussing “anything” that’s contrary to what we believe is wrong, then we are in a trap.
The Merriam-Websters dictionary defines trap as: something by which one is caught or stopped unawares.
also: a position or situation from which it is difficult or impossible to escape.
The question is: How do we get out of the trap and begin to grow?
Looking across documented human history we are provided with numerous examples of people discussing ideas and expanding the understanding of others. The story of Galileo Galilei is a great example.
Almost 400 years ago, Galileo was sentenced to house arrest for the last few years of his life for declaring the Earth traveled around the Sun. The religious belief during Galileo’s life was long held that the Earth was the center of the universe. Today that very thing Galileo got in trouble for is being taught to students in America as early as the second grade (7 or 8 years old).
The first important step is to separate the difference between a religious belief and an idea.
Merriam-Websters dictionary defines a belief as: something that is accepted, considered to be true, or held as an opinion: something believed. Look up the word belief in a thesaurus and the strongest matches include faith, conviction, and idea. The problem is that the word belief is often associated with “religious” beliefs. If one’s decision is based on a religious belief the possibilities of being objective while discussing the topic decreases.
For the purposes of this article let us consider the word “idea” in the place of belief/believe.
Ideas come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Merriam-Websters dictionary defines an idea as a thought or suggestion as to a possible course of action.
Ideas inspire growth. By discussing ideas with others, it can cause us to examine our own ideas more closely. While at the same time, discussing a particular idea with someone, it is entirely possible that we may never agree. However, during the discussion it is highly probable that discussing ideas with others, we run the risks of expanding our understanding.
To paraphrase Bob Marly, “None but ourselves can free our minds.”
Respectful and honest communication is key to discussing ideas because no one is irrelevant. Let’s begin again to have some of those conversations with others that may not share similar ideas and we can begin to stretch and become the best version of ourselves.
As always, if you enjoyed this blog, hit the like button. Also, please share on social media, with friends, etc. because we have to get the word out. Let all of the good people (wherever you are) communicate with one another and help bring us all back together again.
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