13 November 2021
“I don’t have to agree with everything you say, but I should attempt at least to understand it, for the opposite of mutual understanding is, quite simply, war.”
Ken Wilber
Reflection
Ken’s words make me think on my early years as a left-wing activist. Back then, those who did not agree with me were against me. Because I had the best values and opinions, therefore others ought to agree with me. If they didn’t, they were either stupid, selfish or even evil. I can still fall into this thinking from time to time, but nowadays it's liberating when I can listen to others without having to act as a judge, and without having to agree with what they say.
Today's exercise
The next time you talk to someone who has a different opinion than you, try not to argue. Cultivate your curiosity and listen. Reflect and check if you have understood. Listening and reflecting does not mean that you agree.
Tip of the day
Here you can see an easy introduction to Ken Wilber and Integral Theory: Ken Wilber's Integral Theory Summarized In 15 Minutes?
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