RESPECTING OTHERS' POINT OF VIEW

No one else in the world thinks or feels exactly the same way you do about life. To think and to feel is an individual experience. As a result, no two people will have the same point of view.

Sometimes our viewpoints are so closely aligned that the differences aren’t readily apparent. Other times, our viewpoints are so far apart it may seem difficult to find any common ground. The key to respecting the opinions of others is to have an open mind toward your own point of view.

When you look at your beliefs and viewpoints with openness, it becomes clear how attached you are to them. Without an open mind, you will constantly try to subjugate others to your own point of view, often times without even realizing it. Being aware of your level of attachment to your own beliefs, ideas, and point of view allows you to respect the thoughts and feelings of others.

Practice

With awareness, examine your own beliefs and viewpoints the next time you disagree with someone. Although you may not change your viewpoint, being open to other possibilities and perspectives will allow you to respect the viewpoint of the other person.

Living a Life of Awareness

~ Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.