Recently, I came across a really thoughtful psychologist named Adam Grant. He wrote something that really struck a chord with me and I wrote it down. Here it is:
"The hallmark of an open mind is not letting your ideas become your identity. If you define yourself by your opinions, questioning them is a threat to your integrity. If you treat yourself as a lifelong learner, changing your ind is a moment of growth. "
In all of this talk about right-wing craziness, you all might remember that 18 months ago, I had a falling out with my friend of nearly 60 years! In the aftermath of the George Floyd killing, and the resulting legitimate protests, my friend:
Expressed support for the looting, the burning of inner city stores and buildings, and the abolishing of police departments. When I pushed back on his positions, he said I was parroting Fox News, and he and his wife fled, without a word. Months later, I wrote him a 5 page letter addressing these issues, and a whole lot more. I've yet to receive a response, and I imagine I never will. We grew up next door to each other, and again, it was almost a 60 year friendship. Politically, we agree on almost everything! I believe he's marinated in far-left media and refused to challenge his ideas, leaving no room for doubt.
Peter T.
