Do others see the world as you do?
Do you think they should?
Why is it that at times we assume that other people see the world as we do?
- Do you think that you are the only one who is right?
- Do you think that the way your society is, is the only way things should be?
If you answered ‘yes’ to either one of those questions I know it is time that you reconsider these assumptions. Remember that the definition of assumption is a thing that is accepted as true or as certain to happen, without proof. The key words in the definition are without proof. You and I have no proof that we are the only ones that are right!
So what is the solution?
Wouldn’t more discussion be a good start?
Wouldn’t it be good to understand another person before we even try to impose our views on them?
The answers to your two questions have to fall into the “it depends” category.
In many cases, I have to accept that my views are purely my opinions which may not be shared by others. Same sex marriage, political matters, music and art appreciation would fall into this category.
On more important issues like law and order, upholding civilised, Christian values, protecting our culture and the fabric of society, we have to believe we are right and committed. If we do not stand for our values, what do we stand for?
There are too many examples from Nazi Germany, Pol Pot in Cambodia, The Rwanda genocide and the destruction of my former countries Rhodesia and South Africa to show what happens when people lose their commitment to what is right and follow the wave of popular opinion down the wrong path.
If brave people in the past had not stood their ground and convinced others they were right, we would still have slavery, women would not have the vote and child labour would be acceptable in the West.
Yes, discussion is important, but strong leadership and commitment to values are equally so. At some point we have to make a stand for what we believe is right.
As usual Peter; well-thought out comments that more people need to hear. A follow-up question; who decides what is important or not for an individual? Is it the government or the individual?