You really should read this.
It’s vitally important. 😝
Here’s an observation
that only took me a lifetime to learn.
People don’t need your opinion.
If they want to know
what you think, they’ll ask.
You may be unquestionably
spot on in your view.
It may seem perfectly helpful
to a person who is EXACTLY you.
But NOBODY is EXACTLY you.
Your personal wisdom
may sound like self-indulgent noise
to a person who isn’t EXACTLY you.
Accept that there is
no COMMON wisdom or sense.
Keep your beliefs to yourself.
Don’t do what I do.
Blah, blah, blah.
Blah, blah.
Blah.
Trail Wood,
2/10
blah
In the intricate dance of existence, where every soul moves to the rhythm of its own drumbeat, a profound realization dawns upon us—a realization that the symphony of life is composed of countless unique melodies, each resonating with the essence of the individual who plays it. The wisdom we gather over a lifetime, though invaluable to us, may not always harmonize with the tunes of others. This understanding ushers in a new perspective on communication, wisdom, and the diversity of human experience.
The Uniqueness of Individual Perspectives
Each of us is a universe unto ourselves, a swirling galaxy of thoughts, experiences, and perceptions that cannot be replicated. The realization that nobody is exactly like us underscores the beauty and complexity of human diversity. It challenges us to recognize that our opinions, while deeply meaningful to us, may not always resonate with others in the way we intend.
The Role of Solicited Advice
The notion that people do not inherently need our opinions, unless they expressly seek them, invites us to reconsider the way we share our insights. It suggests that wisdom is most potent and impactful when it is requested, allowing the recipient to be open and receptive to the guidance offered.
The Perception of Wisdom
What we consider personal wisdom can indeed be perceived as self-indulgent noise by someone whose life melody differs significantly from our own. This discordance between perspectives highlights the subjective nature of wisdom and the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions.
The Myth of Common Wisdom
The concept of common wisdom or sense is revealed to be a myth, a mirage that dissolves upon closer inspection. This revelation encourages us to embrace the plurality of truths that coexist within the human experience, acknowledging that what is evident to one may not be so to another.
The Practice of Restraint
In light of this understanding, the practice of keeping our beliefs to ourselves, unless sharing is invited or clearly beneficial, becomes a form of respect and kindness. It is an acknowledgment of the individual paths we all tread and the unique lessons we learn along the way.
The Irony of Sharing Unasked Advice
The playful acknowledgment to not do as the speaker does—sharing unasked advice through the very act of advising against it—serves as a gentle reminder of our human tendency to want to impart our knowledge and experiences, even as we learn the value of restraint.
The Symphony of Silence
In the spaces between our words, a different kind of communication unfolds—one that is rooted in listening, observing, and understanding. By embracing silence and the act of not sharing our opinions unsolicited, we allow for a deeper connection with others, one that honors their autonomy and the sanctity of their individual journey.
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
We are led to the realization that our personal wisdom, while profoundly valuable to us, may not always align with the experiences and perceptions of others. This insight calls us to approach our interactions with humility and empathy, recognizing the unique paths that each of us walks. By understanding that our opinions are most impactful when sought, we learn the importance of listening and the power of silence. Through this journey, we discover that embracing the diversity of human experience and practicing restraint in sharing unsolicited advice fosters deeper connections and respect for the individuality of others.
Glossarium
- Individual Perspectives: The unique combination of experiences, thoughts, and emotions that shape each person’s understanding of the world.
- Solicited Advice: Guidance or opinions that are explicitly requested by others, ensuring receptivity and relevance.
- Subjective Nature of Wisdom: The idea that what one person considers wise or valuable may not be perceived the same way by someone else due to differences in experiences and perspectives.
- Plurality of Truths: The concept that multiple truths can coexist, reflecting the diverse experiences and beliefs of individuals.
- Symphony of Silence: The rich, communicative potential of silence and listening in fostering understanding and connection among individuals.
“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.” – Epictetus
In the silence between words,
A universe unfolds,
Where wisdom whispers
And understanding grows.
Each soul a melody,
Unique and unrepeated,
In the symphony of existence,
Our stories intertwined, yet separate.
Listen, observe, embrace
The diversity of tunes,
For in the quiet act of listening,
Our hearts find room to bloom.
We invite reflections on the beauty of understanding and the power of listening in the grand symphony of life.
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