Keeping An Open Mind Allows For Growth

It is human nature to avoid changes and cherish the traditional ways which we are so accustomed to. Change has never been wholeheartedly welcomed and embraced in the world without some resistance. When Galileo Galilee proclaimed that the universe does not revolve around the earth, in fact, the earth orbits about the sun, the church was violent in its effort to thwart the new idea. In the end, the church failed to keep such a sacrilegious theory in abeyance. Galileo’s discoveries inspired many scientists who made huge contributions in constructing our modern world. Though changes are not always for the best, has it not been the most absurd and outlandish changes that have won the most acclaim and praise in later generations? Once considered detestable, abstract art is now extolled as one of the most sophisticated aesthetic expressions. Keeping an open mind to change allows for growth in all aspects.

Being open-minded allows for growth of friendly relations around the globe. It is the cumulative effort of each individual that will instigate others to adapt to innovation and new philosophies and ultimately bring about sweeping changes in the nation, and the world at large. Perhaps the best example of these wonderful changes involves the rise of multiculturalism. Multiculturalism is only possible if people are open-minded and tolerant of other cultures. Because of the growing popularity of multiculturalism a person with any color of skin regardless of his or her background is equally welcomed in most countries. Such change was unheard of not long ago in the dark era of slavery.

As Caucasians marry those with Asian backgrounds and many different cultures cross-marry, more and more people accepting other religions and ethics. Those who decide to amalgamate with other races overcome their prejudice and are setting up examples for generations after. This is a great step toward achieving world peace. Many hostile nations are fighting wars with neighboring countries because of their disparate beliefs. If everyone was more open-minded, this world would be a happier place. Changes can open the door to a more loving world where everyone seeks compromise instead of revenge.

When we let our prejudiced judgment overrule human compassion, we bereft ourselves of infinite possibilities of joy and growth. Every time we look at people and dislike them just because they do not “look pretty” and do not “sound friendly,” we have lost another friend. The physical person is just a thin membrane stretched to conceal the complexity within. Usually our first impression of another is far from an accurate representation of his or her character. We should open ourselves to new people, and then we will be rewarded with the same pleasure we would get from reading a wonderful book with a torn and ragged cover. More importantly, open-mindedness is the key to maturity. Maturity is about seeing things shaded grey, not black nor white. It is about searching for compromises, accepting suggestions, and forgiving others. Maturity is about learning to accept the changes in our lives and make the best of it.

Frustrated toward change as we were, still are, and will be in the future, we can neither stop time nor bend the rules of the world nor tame nature to our preferences. The world is amorphous and never still. We must open ourselves to new concepts and ways of life if we are to survive. After all, the world and our society do not revolve around anyone. We must learn to harmonize our lives to the great cycles of the world.