Inspiring Quotes, Spiritual Growth. Inspirational Stories

Inspiring Quotes "Considered"

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"Do not think of knocking out another person's brains because he differs in opinion from you. It would be as rational to knock yourself on the head because you differ from yourself ten years ago." - Horace Mann

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There are billions of perspectives floating around in the world. Our different experiences and the uniqueness of each individual shape a grand variety in thinking. Add to that, the fact that each one of us is constantly evolving, and you've got a planet bustling with many ideas, personal philosophies, and dreams.

Yes, they are out there - and as we encounter different opinions and mindsets from our own, it's very important to be aware of how we relate to them.

To begin with, we might consider why so many folks are threatened by differences of opinion. For some just thinking of the word "disagreement" results in an internal clenching or anxiety. A big reason for the discomfort might just be because we've never closely considered it.

The most common definition of the word "disagree" is simply "to have a difference in opinion". However, some tend to unconsciously think of having differences of opinion as a contest where one person needs to be right, and the other wrong. That's when the ego kicks in and says things like, "I don't want to be wrong. I don't want to lose face. I must be right." Perhaps anxiety or anger is created because we don't want to admit that we may not be correct or may not have all the answers. Although it all may seem a little extreme, these are not uncommon reactions to disagreements at home or in the workplace.

One way to break out of the trap is to realize disagreement isn't a battle or an attack. Far from it. In actuality, exposure to differences is quite healthy. It stimulates us to make sure our own thoughts are as we truly want them. It opens us up to new ideas, and often progress. Sometimes it further strengthens our very own points of view.

There's never been a better time than now to lose the fear and think about our differences in a healthier way. Consider that there can be a great freedom and harmony in respecting our own thinking, while also honoring that same natural process in others. Why would we deny someone else the very same gift that we enjoy? That is, the right to form our own beliefs, and to shape our own experiences by them.

It makes it even easier when we realize that it's perfectly fine not to have a firm or final opinion. It's no reflection on our intelligence. In fact, it's often the wiser person who says, "I hear what you're saying. Yeah, I haven't fully made up my mind on that yet." Or even, "That's a good point. That makes sense to me."

If you're firm on your point of view, it's just as easy to say, "Looks like we have a difference of opinion, but I respect the fact that you think differently than I do." This projects both a great sense of confidence and respect.

And if we're wrong? Big deal. Learning and changing our minds is a sign of intelligent evolution. If we never changed our minds, we'd all still be living in the First Grade. Beyond that, ever notice that people don't trust or think highly of a Know-it-all?

Yes, differences of opinion are an important part of our experience. Besides, if we were all exactly the same, what a boring world this would be.

Spiritual Growth reflections:

When was the last time I had a difference of opinion from someone else?

How did I feel inside? How did I handle it? Could I do it differently next time?

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