Ponderings in a corner of the universe

To address recent comments about “not believing everything you read”. I agree with that comment. It also applies to see, & hear. Even when sources are reliable or honest there is always the human element of opinion at the very least which jades everything another person tells us. And at the most total deception and lies, manipulation, control etc. I understand the theory “there is no truth just different amounts of information”… but do believe in the truth and have respect for those who live by it.

The posters comment “Perhaps choose one or two opinions which can help evolve your persona, but attempting to make drastic personal changes will likely bring more issues than positive outcomes” is intriguing. Quite the assumption to the negative on personal change, sounds like someone who’s scared of change. I’d recommend “Who moved my cheese” By Spencer Johnson. Some great opinions in there ;-)

Choice is fundamental to humanity and freedom so (unless repressed/oppressed) we do naturally choose from the opinions and information absorbed from our education, experiences and exposure to others. The very nature of learning, be it directly from a Taoist master, a business mentor, a teacher, or a book is that we assimilate information and build our own perspective from that. Some learning is interactive, some is one directional. Why limit yourself to choosing only a few opinions? Is this not short sighted, and restrictive? Does this not do one justice in ones capability to grow beyond what one learns externally by limiting the input? That was, however the posters opinion, power to them for their choice of building their persona. I’m going to keep learning from as many sources as possible, including literature of all types to satisfy my ongoing need for greater and broader perspective of life.

Triangulation, (http://www.google.com/search?q=define%3A+triangulation) as with using multiple (three of more) points to identify a location the more information that we have, the more methodologies, precepts, concepts, opinions, and sources of information we have, the more accurate our understanding of the location, thought, or truth. With only one or two opinions are you maximising your capability to grow into something greater?

A final thought on making money selling life teaching books. Great observation! Who knows what motive is truly behind the book. Another reason to read lots of books, attend lots of seminars and have lots of conversations with people – be it experts or “just” the experienced – to gather as much information as possible for your triangulation. These people are professionals. As are politicians, the police, business owners, priests and more. All people who have a great deal of influence in peoples lives. Let alone the musicians (ok there are plenty of struggling artists), sports personalities, and social workers. In a capitalist society it is money that makes the world go round (oh, and love ;-)) so I really don’t find it surprising these books/seminars cost money. The great thing about books is you can find them in libraries. I suggest joining one and gathering your information there (said with a healthy does of sarcasm, served with a healthy smile and intended in good jest).

Of course, that’s all my opinion and you don’t have to choose it to evolve your persona.

Good luck triangulating!