I'm a huge fan of reconsideration. When I was growing up, I remember going to my mother with all my questions and I don't ever remember her not having a good answer. When I became a parent, however, I was dumbstruck by how frequently my kids would ask me questions for which I had absolutely no answer. I felt immediately inferior until later in life I realized that it was a powerful thing to stand in "I don't know." We all have ideas that could use some reconsideration and I make it a point to welcome shifts in my beliefs. That kind of modeling makes kids nimble and flexible thinkers with strong opinions, held loosely. If I could start each day with, "Please, help me change my mind" It would probably be a good day. Open mindedness builds bridges. Adam Grant's book Think Again is a worthwhile read on the topic.
You are an excellent parent and writer. Deep real questions
Thank you
Thanks so much, Prajna!
I'm a huge fan of reconsideration. When I was growing up, I remember going to my mother with all my questions and I don't ever remember her not having a good answer. When I became a parent, however, I was dumbstruck by how frequently my kids would ask me questions for which I had absolutely no answer. I felt immediately inferior until later in life I realized that it was a powerful thing to stand in "I don't know." We all have ideas that could use some reconsideration and I make it a point to welcome shifts in my beliefs. That kind of modeling makes kids nimble and flexible thinkers with strong opinions, held loosely. If I could start each day with, "Please, help me change my mind" It would probably be a good day. Open mindedness builds bridges. Adam Grant's book Think Again is a worthwhile read on the topic.
As always, so well said. I love how you apply the word reconsideration - I’ve never thought to use it in this way.
I always appreciate your posts; they are thought provoking for any age.
Thanks, Gail! I'm so grateful for your support and interest.