Everyone’s perception of the world is different to say the least. The model we have built our entire life, started the day we were born. As we grow and learn from our own experiences, that model takes shape, and each day tends to be a bit different from the one before.
Not only do we need to establish that every person’s mind perceives the world differently, we need to RESPECT their view as well. Though this may seem like an easy or cliché step to follow, it’s far easier said than done.
So what is a “model” exactly? A model is simply a template of how you view the world, and everything in it. This format is comprised of areas like psychology, sociology, religion, geographic regions, etc.
Our models, or general perspectives, are applied daily to interact with individuals or specific events.
When we take a wide glance at the different types of models in the world, it’s important to understand that everyone is on a completely different path in life. In addition to this, each person travels many different paths throughout their lifetime. Inevitably, this will cause friction in terms of having disagreements.
For Example:
Take two people that have been close friends for fifteen or twenty years. Obviously, their model of the world is somewhat similar. They share many common interests or beliefs which creates such a strong bond between them both.
Now, let’s say during their mid 20s, one friend becomes very financially wealthy, while the other friend undergoes a low point, and is experiencing poverty.
Though these two people have always seen eye-to-eye with most topics, during their mid 20s, a few perceptions may temporarily alter. Let’s look at some disagreements that may occur while their models aren’t as balanced as usual;
- Government-provided healthcare
- Picking up the tab at lunch/dinner
- Minimum Wage increase
- More or less sympathetic for homeless men and women
The examples of altering opinions are unlimited. Our main focus here is to understand that not only do we all have different models of the world, but our models are constantly changing.
Having a difference of opinion is essential to a healthy society. This is because “balance” is a key element to absolutely everything. An imbalanced airplane will crash. An imblanced ship will sink. An imbalanced society will destruct.
Yes, we often come across individuals that really get under our skin. We can’t even fathom how they believe the things they do, but this is FINE. We don’t have to like what others think, we ONLY have to respect it. If not for the sake of THEM, then for the sake of balancing OUR WORLD.