It's Okay to Disagree
As my spiritual beliefs have drastically changed over the last few years, I've recognized how difficult it is to be open and honest with folks about such beliefs-- especially those who may be quite rigid in their own belief systems. As a result, I've noticed that I have developed an environment where I remain "in the closet," in a sense. I have chosen to do so, at first unknowingly, because it has always felt scary to share a genuine, honest thought with someone who I think will freak out at my newfound beliefs. After living this way for a little while now, I'm beginning understanding that it feels disingenuous.
Ever since I remember, I have always had a strong distaste for small talk exactly for the same reason: it has felt disingenuous. But maybe this has been my fault? I think so. I'm starting to realize that my distaste for small talk has been a result of my inability to express myself freely. I have always admired those who boldly speak there minds, often shocking those around them with such transparency. Alas, withholding my beliefs and opinions has inevitably created distance between myself and others.
At this point in my life, I'm quite tired of worrying how others will handle what I think. This worrying how another will react has been caused by one core belief that I've held for far too long: "It's not okay for us to disagree." Disagreement has always felt uncomfortable to me; conflict has always felt awkward. I realize how silly this may sound, but it's something that is extremely deep-seeded within me. It's time for me to let this belief go. I now want to make it a daily practice of mine to place myself in situations with people I disagree with. Doing so will help suppress my ego's desire to "be right" and also allow me to see that it's okay to disagree.
Differing opinions is what makes our world such a beautiful place. We would all get bored without diversity. After all, conflict is what brings about healthy growth and change. Thus, my journey begins to express my opinions in a respectful manner. As long as I don't get sucked into trying to make people believe what I believe, I will be free to listen to one's beliefs while also fully expressing mine. Honestly, this will be challenging at first, but frequent practice will lead to a change in habit.
I now clearly see that it's okay to disagree. Whether it to on matters of God, religion, or the weather...at the end of the day, I am still able to be in relationship with someone who sees the world through different lenses. After all, how much can one actually grow if he only surrounds himself with copycats of himself?
Ever since I remember, I have always had a strong distaste for small talk exactly for the same reason: it has felt disingenuous. But maybe this has been my fault? I think so. I'm starting to realize that my distaste for small talk has been a result of my inability to express myself freely. I have always admired those who boldly speak there minds, often shocking those around them with such transparency. Alas, withholding my beliefs and opinions has inevitably created distance between myself and others.
At this point in my life, I'm quite tired of worrying how others will handle what I think. This worrying how another will react has been caused by one core belief that I've held for far too long: "It's not okay for us to disagree." Disagreement has always felt uncomfortable to me; conflict has always felt awkward. I realize how silly this may sound, but it's something that is extremely deep-seeded within me. It's time for me to let this belief go. I now want to make it a daily practice of mine to place myself in situations with people I disagree with. Doing so will help suppress my ego's desire to "be right" and also allow me to see that it's okay to disagree.
Differing opinions is what makes our world such a beautiful place. We would all get bored without diversity. After all, conflict is what brings about healthy growth and change. Thus, my journey begins to express my opinions in a respectful manner. As long as I don't get sucked into trying to make people believe what I believe, I will be free to listen to one's beliefs while also fully expressing mine. Honestly, this will be challenging at first, but frequent practice will lead to a change in habit.
I now clearly see that it's okay to disagree. Whether it to on matters of God, religion, or the weather...at the end of the day, I am still able to be in relationship with someone who sees the world through different lenses. After all, how much can one actually grow if he only surrounds himself with copycats of himself?
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