Today’s Mandala Message: Decide on Facts
This week I’m working through Principle #52 “When In Doubt, Check It Out”. I set my intention today to ponder the value of facts versus assumptions. Canfield states: “What’s the fundamental problem with assuming anything? It’s that people are usually the most afraid of that which they don’t know. Instead of checking into things, they assume facts that may not exist, then build prejudices around those assumptions. They make bad decisions based on these assumptions, on rumors, or on other peoples’ opinions”
I’d say that more times than not, most of my assumptions about people, places, and things, have been unfounded rather than true. I especially notice this with people. I’ll see or meet someone new and based on appearances or what I’ve heard about them, I’ll make assumptions about them (good or bad). As I get to know them, I usually end up changing my take on them in one direction or another. Bottom line: I’m striving to have an open mind when I meet or hang out with people. I know when I do I’m usually richly rewarded with a new friendship.
Just this weekend I attended a lovely women’s retreat. Early on, I found myself making some assumptions about some of the other women who attended. Over the course of the weekend and by doing multiple activities with them, I got to know them on a deeper level thus reevaluating all of my previous assumptions. It was really nothing that they did that made that happen. It was me lifting my filters and allowing myself to get to know them for who they are. It ended up being a beautiful experience.
A good mindfulness practice would be to ponder how often your assumptions have been proven untrue.
So how about you? Do you tend to make assumptions rather than check things out? Are your assumptions usually negative? Do you tend to make assumptions about people before getting to know them?
“If we are honest with ourselves,
— Elizabeth Thornton
we have to admit
that sometimes our assumptions
and preconceived notions
are wrong, and therefore,
our interpretation of events
is incorrect.
This causes us to overreact,
to take things personally,
or to judge people unfairly.”
Blessings,
Maureen
The Mandala Lady
All Things Mandalas
An Invitation
I invite you to color along with me this year as part of what I’m calling “The Year of Self-Exploration and Expansion” with all of my “Mandalas of the ___” (day, week, month, year). If you’re interested in more of a self-exploration approach to coloring, check out my “Coloring Mandalas as Meditation”. You can download this mandala at MandalaoftheWeek.com.
Mandala of the Day 