I’m fascinated with the growing evidence that critical thinking and objectivity appears to have died. What I mean by that is that so many people seem to simply repeat what they have heard or read somewhere else without (it seems) having formulated original thinking on their own. This trend is especially dangerous to our spiritual health – in fact, maybe even deadly. Let me explain myself.
The world of current events and politics is a great example where some seem to be simply repeating what they have heard or more likely what others want them to think. I was taught to question everything and do my own homework. So take for example the current politics around taxes. I have seen people either comment on or simply re-post things from others without a shred of critical thinking. I wonder for example how many have taken the time to actually read the legislation? While legislation is often tedious, it’s a good place to start. Further, how many have actually read and evaluated analysis from multiple perspectives? It seems that some are content eating from someone else’s slop trough whether it’s from one political bucket or another.
What’s even more troubling is that it appears many don’t challenge themselves to consider opposing points of view. I discussed in a post a while ago the effects of confirmation bias; where we only seek out information or sources that already confirm our own views. So when you hold a specific opinion (and opinions are like something else we all have in common) and choose only to evaluate information and sources that share that opinion, you surrender your free will to those who simply tell you what to think.
So what does this have to do with your spiritual health? First, religion can be like an echo chamber. If you keep ingesting the same message over and over, you become a spiritual zombie simply repeating what you’ve been told. The world is afraid of those who choose the path of awakening and begin to question the narrative of the masses. Yet to become truly free and healthy, you need to open your mind and heart to the world of possibilities and be willing to critically evaluate all aspects regardless of how you may feel about it or what preconceived opinions you may hold. It’s only then that you begin to formulate your own unique identity and embrace what is true for you.
I think the polarization in our society today is simply a symptom of a much deeper and more deadly disease – the death of critical thinking. When you lose the willingness to examine the uncomfortable and embrace it, you start to become a robot that mechanically repeats what others want you to believe. It’s only when you step into an open mind and heart and allow your own beliefs to be challenged by alternate (and opposing) perspectives, that you stop being an echo chamber and begin stepping into being the authentic voice.
I believe in the transformative power of human connection to elevate joy, restore balance, and support inner healing as you seek your highest purpose. My purpose in life is to be a guide, to share the wisdom of the Universe I’ve been gifted with, and to see others succeed. Nothing brings me greater joy than to see others step into their purpose in a vibrant and highly energetic way.
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Great insights, my friend, great insights and so true. Thank you.