virgin islands scene

The only true happiness comes from squandering ourselves for a purpose.
-- William Cowper
 

 

Friday, July 8, 2005

Differing opinions

Seek to understand those with whom you disagree. And you’ll learn to better understand yourself. Look at life from someone else’s perspective. And your own perspective will become more valuable.

No two people experience the world in exactly the same way. That is one big thing that makes life so interesting, and the possibilities so abundant.

The opinions of others in no way threaten your own opinions. In fact, the opinions of others can help you to refine and strengthen your own unique perspective.

If you assume that you are right and everyone else is wrong, then you shut yourself off from valuable growth and learning. If you close your mind out of fear that someone else might change it, you’re certainly not showing very much confidence in your own opinions.

Give your opinions and beliefs the respect they deserve by opening them up to challenge and criticism. That is what will make them stronger, more sincere, and of more value to everyone.

— Ralph Marston

previousAttitude and experience       Embrace lifenext

Copyright ©2005 Ralph S. Marston, Jr. All Rights Reserved. The Daily Motivator is provided for your personal, non-commercial use only. Other than personal sharing, please do not re-distribute without permission.