Taking a fresh perspective doesn't mean we will change our minds. It can just give us a break in listening to our broken record, a chance to look in a variety of directions even if we come full circle back to our own original point of view.
When trying to persuade others to your point of view, you need to present your "argument" backed up with facts. You also need to present a counterargument which shows how other opinions are not as valid as yours. This is basic freshman composition.
Some of our convictions will never change, and maybe they shouldn't; however, we need to remember the times in our lives when we were mistaken and needed to change our minds. Our thinking was clarified. We shouldn't be afraid to break away from narrow-minded, worn-out opinions. At times, we need to see the advantages of change and the disadvantages of becoming stagnant. If we can look beyond prejudice, if we can honor other opinions as well as our own, if we can refresh our thinking, wisdom will be our reward.
Acceptance of others' points of view -- whether we agree or not -- is truly the way to live. We can disagree and still maintain relationships. Don't you wish governments and radicals would do the same?
ReplyDeleteEveryone has their own point of view and reasons why they believe as they do. We need to honor this right on a personal level and as a government. Relationships suffer when individuals and groups think their opinions are facts. Radicals, here and abroad, believe believe they have the right to force their opinions on others.
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