There’s more than just one perspective.
I believe people are entitled to their own opinions and beliefs. However, a big pet peeve of mine is when people are so tunnel-visioned to their own “rightness” that they fail to take into account any other side of the story.
Basically, close-mindedness.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying you should be a pushover when it comes to having opinions and beliefs. In fact, to have a strongly-developed set of values, it’s essential to know all sides of the story, not just your own side.
Look at the other perspective from time to time. Not just a cursory glance, but really try to understand the motives and reasoning behind why that perspective is different from yours.
If you can understand the other perspectives and are still able to support your views, then more power to you. You’ll probably have a better grasp of what you believe in, and you’ll be able to understand what drives people who might not have the same thoughts as you.
Now if people did this more, half our problems in society today would be gone. The other half is politicians.
I kid, I kid. But just remember, it pays to have an open mind. You’ll understand other viewpoints, have a firmer grasp of your own beliefs, and avoid a lot of misunderstanding and ill will.
Black and white at randomtidbitsofthought.wordpress.com.
