Years ago a major university did a study on the most effective way to load a dishwasher. Please forgive them; it was the 60’s. As silly as it sounds the results are important. They found over 100 ways to load a dishwasher and they all worked.
The results of this experiment can be applied to most aspects of our interactions with other people. Just as there are many ways to load a dishwasher, there are many ways for people to lead their lives. Although we may not agree with how people eat, dress or worship, it doesn’t matter. In one way or another, it works for them. If you have differing views on things such as meat vs. veg, maxi vs. mini or Christian vs. Non, it’s good to have a conversation. But remember, a conversation includes listening. Truly listening to learn, not listening for an opportunity to express your opinion. Their life experience led them to their values just as your life experience led you to yours. The most important thing to remember is that you don’t know what lessons anyone else is here to learn, so you don’t know what is best for them. You only know what is best for you.
Oh Wow! This really hit me this morning. Just what I needed to hear. A little kindness and understanding of our differences. I’ve had a couple of people want me to do things their way, and I found I wanted to please them. But in doing that I am not being true to my own experience. Thanks for sharing. I feel understood
Yes. very true. I wish more people would listen first, then speak. You may have a completely different mindset once you hear someone out. Even if they are different than you. Thanks for sharing — great analogy!
Well said. Thank you for sharing.
Absolutely true.