You Are Wrong

We see this in politics, sports, medicine, and psychology. There are many therapists that insist that that their treatment modality is best without considering that one size does not fit all. What works for one person, may not be the best approach for another, because of a person’s uniqueness and individual circumstances. It is the patient or client who suffers from this type of narrow-mindedness and inflexibility.

It’s Only An Opinion

Years ago, I remember reading that "facts are only accepted fiction". At the time, I considered that to be quite a peculiar statement. But over the years, I have discovered that so many facts in both science and everyday life have been replaced. We see this in the current findings in quantum physics and neuroscience, as well as integrative medicine. What was once a sacred cow has been put out to pasture.

So when someone attempts to say you are wrong, it is their belief system that has formed that opinion through their perception. We have all experienced our ideas being dismissed by parents, teachers, friends and others. It’s important that we come to the point of trusting our intuition and instincts about what we hear, see and experience. We must be compassionate, but at the same time respect our own voice and opinion.

Respect your child’s opinion, and respond honestly. They may be off base in their opinion, but the you are wrong card will not get you very far in peacefully resolving the situation. And remember the adage about not being able to hear what was said because one’s behavior and actions were so loud. I forget who said that, but it most definitely applies when dealing with others. And just because someone says you are wrong or right, does not necessarily make it so.

A Delicate Balance

The Right/Wrong game in many instances has led to violent behavior in our homes and community as well as on a global level. When the ego gets involved, there is no willingness to compromise, and things tend to escalate. In differences of opinion with our loved ones or others, it would benefit us greatly to choose our battles carefully. We release the urge to be critical, develop some humility, and don’t worry about the small stuff.

Now none of this means to allow folks to take advantage or run all over us. On the contrary, we plant “Seeds of Peace” by accepting and allowing others to be who they are without condemnation, but also setting boundaries.

A person is not bad because they enjoy playing loud music at all hours of the day and night. They may not care or be aware of their annoying behavior, but it is our responsibility to let them know that they either shut it down at certain times of the day or move out.

You are Wrong and I am Right is not something that is going away any time soon. By increasing our awareness of this dynamic, and interacting with others in a more humble way, we are then the positive role models that are so drastically needed in our homes, communities, and world. We will soon discover that foregoing a few power struggles here and there, not only advances our opinion, but creates a harmonious atmosphere where true compromise can occur.

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