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Walk Tall

 


I recently listened to a song by one of my favorite artist’s name John Mellencamp. The song is called Walk Tall. As I listened to the lyrics, I could not help reflecting on the world around me.

John states:

The simple minded and the uninformed
Can be easily led astray
And those that cannot connect the dots
Hey, look the other way
People believe what they wanna believe
When it makes no sense at all…

This is a recurring sight for me, encountered daily on social media, in conversations, on the news, and most notably in politics. People readily accept Facebook, MSNBC, CNN, or even their neighbor’s post on any platform as the ultimate truth. Very few people bother to delve into the facts, and it’s even worse how furious they get when faced with differing opinions.

A point proven recently with a post I saw on Facebook. Someone stated, “this proves people will argue about anything”. There was a picture of a plastic cup of water that was ¾ full. The caption below said a full glass of water. Immediately, the comments began with ‘that is not a glass’, then ‘it is not full’. Also, someone posted ‘how do we know that is water?’. At the time I saw it there were over 100 comments. I didn’t read them all, but many were like what I just posted. Point proven.

What is the reason behind our constant need to be right in every situation? What is the significance of emphasizing the errors made by others? And if we do, why is the rebuttal so unrelentingly severe? What drives people to constantly point out the flaws and errors of others?

As mentioned, beliefs hold a place in everyone’s heart. Political, religious, even more simple things like favor singer, favorite food, favorite actor, color, season, sports team, etc. In many cases (such as politics) “People believe what they wanna believe. When it makes no sense at all…”

Having a belief in something is perfectly acceptable and should be embraced. The danger arises when you fail to thoroughly research and validate your beliefs or the information you read. Additionally, failing to listen to opposing viewpoints can hinder the growth of one’s own beliefs. I long for the days when people could engage in civil conversations, genuinely seeking to understand opposing points of view instead of preparing a counterargument. When people talk to you, do you truly listen to their words or are you already formulating a response in your mind based on your own assumptions?

Beliefs hold great significance, but they are subjective and individual. Others should never be subjected to the imposition or manipulation of views from social media and the news media. Take the time to research, have your own convictions, yet remain willing to hear contrasting opinions openly. You may learn something valuable. It is crucial to refrain from coercing others into adopting your beliefs.

As John continues in his song;

So be careful in what you believe in
There’s plenty to get you confused
And in this land called paradise
You must walk in many men’s shoes
Bigotry and hatred are enemies to us all
Grace, mercy, and forgiveness
Will help a man walk tall

Until next time,

Tim

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjNn9_bfp6k

Comments

  1. Tim BindnerSeptember 28, 2024 at 12:36 PM

    Good morning and TGI-the weekend!!

    Your post made me think about something so just want to share.

    The need to be “right”… always
    The need to highlight “other’s errors”, etc.
    The need to be “better than X”
    The hesitancy to be “truly” happy when something good/great happens for or to someone else
    The need to say “I told you so”
    Etc.

    Earlier this year I noticed that some people I was/am around - friends, family, work colleagues, etc. fit into one of the above. I didn’t realize how “exhausting” it was for me to be around them because I’m not like that … I don’t think or act that way. However, now that I am “aware”, I come prepared for those encounters, knowing what more than likely will happen, and I limit my time in those situations.

    It’s not perfect…but it helps!

    Have a great weekend!

    ReplyDelete

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