Few people are capable of expressing with equanimity opinions which differ from the prejudices of their social environment. Most people are even incapable of forming such opinions. ~ Albert Einstein

Trusting Yourself Is Always a Good Start

I still remember the time, years ago, when I got my first “hate mail.” It almost literally knocked the breath out of me. I wondered how anyone could hate this work I do that much.

Since then, of course, I’ve gotten a lot more. But it no longer bothers me. I don’t even read most of it. And I never respond. As we all know, what we resist only grows larger.

To take this another step “closer to home,” some of my family also hate what I do. I was reminded of this in a recent conversation I had with a family member. At least they don’t send me hate mail.    But they do take every opportunity to start an argument with me about it.

I’ve learned over time to simply refuse to discuss certain topics with them. For one, my work. For others, politics and religion.

I would love to discuss anything with them, including politics, religion, and my work—IF they were open-minded. But they are not, the do not listen, and are interested only in converting me to their way of thinking.

Besides, I have little interest in politics, and am not well-informed about it. I am well-informed about religion since I studied theology over eight years, and nearly became a Roman Catholic priest.

As I said to that family member above, “Republican”—“Democrat”—“Catholic”—Muslim—“liberal”—“conservative,” etc., etc. are just labels. I don’t label myself. I am none of those. Labels only separate and alienate us from each other.

Former US Senator Al Simpson lives here in this little mountain town. An interviewer once asked him what he thought of other politicians. He went on a mini-tirade against the hypocrisy and cruelty of some politicians. As is his way, he’s very honest and plain-spoken.

After all, he said, “We’re all God’s children.”

Amen!

My spirit guides often recommend a sort of mantra for all of us: “I am my  own highest authority. There is no greater authority than my own inner voice.”

**************************************

People’s Opinion of You Is None of Your Business is delightful discussion by Esther Hicks and Abraham.