Stereotypes propagate a full spectrum of negative, divisive, and destructive effects. We know the usual ones, based on race, color, gender, economics, political affiliation, etc. The list is long and goes on.

It feels like society is intent on building more walls lately, not tearing them down. As much as there is a narrative about overcoming them, some of the tactics being used are actually reinforcing them.

It is a challenge for each of us, every day, to acknowledge and see past the stereotypes we carry within us. When we subscribe to stereotypes and labeling, we are not only doing an injustice to others, we also are to ourselves.

When we can personally overcome this sort of thinking and behavior, we become expansive and growing, big rather than small.

Let’s commit to adopting bigger thinking, wider perspectives, and to building bridges rather than walls.

Inspirational Quotes:

“….. it would be interesting to find out what goes on in that moment when someone looks at you and draws all sorts of conclusions.”  ~ Malcolm Gladwell

“The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story.” ~ Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“Once you label me you negate me.” ~ Søren Kierkegaard

“A stereotype becomes a stereotype when a significant percentage of the population appears to conform to it.” ~ Kelley Armstrong

Stereotypical Walls © Susan L Hart 2021 | Friendly comments welcome | Photo courtesy u_m5d2lywo, PIxabay

The truth is the truth. Constant, consistent, it vibrates to the inner core of our being. We feel the truth. Like the straight arrow, the truth seeks it bullseye. It does not take a winding path to some ever shifting mark in the sand.

Truth has come into question of late. What is it? Where is it? Why should any one entity have the ultimate say in what the truth is, to mold the consensual reality as they see fit?

Sometimes there is no instant way to pinpoint the truth, but what we can do is be widely observant, noting the incongruities and idiosyncrasies, and listening to our intuitive voices along the way. We can feel a vibe in any situation, be it positive or negative, when we’re paying close attention. Logic and intuitive reasoning combined help us to know where to properly place our trust.

If you are not already doing so, it is time to listen to your inner truth. In rune stones, Teiwaz (the arrow symbol) represents the spiritual warrior. Spiritual warriors do not put blind faith in the consensual narrative. With patience and perseverance, they observe, analyze, and go inward to compile their own conclusion.

As Albert Einstein said, “Blind belief in authority is the greatest enemy of truth.” This is your call to start listening to your own inner voice.

Inspirational Quotes:

“Whatever satisfies the soul is truth.” ~ Walt Whitman

“Sometimes people don’t want to hear the truth because they don’t want their illusions destroyed.” ~ Friedrich Nietzsche

“Most men would rather deny a hard truth than face it.” ~ George R.R. Martin

“The truth is not always beautiful, nor beautiful words the truth.” ~ Lao Tzu, Tao Te Chin