The best way to love people
who always think they’re right
is to say nothing
and let them think they’re right.
Otherwise
you’re robbing them
of the experience
of being inarguably
and indisputably right,
which is what they believe.
And also the experience
of very possibly
finding out otherwise,
on their own,
rather than having
someone else’s truth
shoved down their throats.
But I could be wrong.
Trail Wood,
1/11
In the cosmic ballet of interactions and perceptions, where each individual orbits their own universe of beliefs and convictions, the approach to loving those who steadfastly believe in their own rightness is a nuanced dance. It’s a journey that requires patience, understanding, and a deep appreciation of the diverse landscapes of human thought and belief.
The Art of Silent Understanding
Choosing to say nothing in the face of unwavering conviction is not a passive act, but a deliberate form of understanding and respect. It acknowledges the importance of allowing individuals to inhabit their own realms of belief without external intrusion. This silence is not an agreement or endorsement of their views but a recognition of their right to hold them.
Respecting the Journey of Self-Realization
By refraining from challenging their beliefs, we honor the journey of self-realization that each person must undertake. It’s a journey that is deeply personal and cannot be accelerated or redirected by external forces. The experience of arriving at one’s own conclusions, whether they reaffirm or challenge existing beliefs, is a crucial aspect of personal growth and understanding.
The Possibility of Self-Discovery
In allowing others the space to think they are right, we also open the door for them to discover different truths on their own terms. The journey of self-discovery is often more profound and lasting when it is self-guided, rather than being the result of external persuasion or confrontation.
Navigating the Balance of Engagement and Acceptance
The approach of silent understanding requires a delicate balance. It’s a dance between engagement and acceptance, between sharing our truths and respecting the truths of others. This balance is not static but a fluid, dynamic process that evolves with each interaction and each relationship.
The Humility of Uncertainty
Finally, the acknowledgment, “But I could be wrong,” is a powerful statement of humility and openness. It’s a recognition that our understanding of the world is always incomplete, that our grasp of truth is always evolving. This humility is not a weakness, but a strength that allows us to remain open to new perspectives and possibilities.
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
The approach to loving those who believe they are always right involves a respectful silence that allows them their beliefs while opening the possibility of self-guided discovery. It’s a nuanced balance of respect, understanding, and humility, acknowledging the personal journey of self-realization and the ever-evolving nature of truth.
Glossarium
- Art of Silent Understanding: The approach of respecting others’ convictions without challenging them, allowing space for self-discovery.
- Journey of Self-Realization: The personal process of discovering and understanding one’s beliefs and truths.
- Humility of Uncertainty: The acknowledgment of the limitations of our own understanding and openness to new perspectives.
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” – Socrates
In the dance of thoughts and beliefs, we tread,
With silent understanding, we move ahead.
Respecting journeys, their own to make,
In the cosmos of ideas, we partake.
The humility of not knowing, we embrace,
In this cosmic journey, we find our place.
With each step, in silence or in speech,
In love and respect, we each reach.
We invite thoughts on the approach of silent understanding and respecting the journey of self-realization in our interactions with others.
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