An Open Mind

A Tao proverb prescribed these for those striving to have an open mind:

"Learn Everything, Attached to Nothing"

An interesting idea to ponder.

In our daily lives we strive to have an open mind. This is a prerequisite not just for a select few but in actuality it is a must for everyone to have if we are to achieve Vision 2020 oft-heralded by our leaders. It is needed to achieve unity and peace.

What is an open mind then? Is having an open mind means have to be liberal? Is it in the way we dress? Is it in the way we speak?

The connotation of the phrase itself "open mind", points to a state consciousness or a way of thinking. In affect its an internal state of being, misleading if we try to pinpoint it through outside appearances alone. I believe a good definition would be "the ability to learn and accept new ideas and to act upon it". I accept, this is merely a personal opinion and I do not claim to have intelligence above and beyond the norm, but think many of you might agree with me. If not then please read on, perhaps there might yet be something to learn.

If we accept the definition then a person who strives to have an open mind must then have these elements in himself:-

1. Humbleness. A person must be able to accept his weaknesses for the learning process to begin. To learn something we must accept that perhaps there are deficiencies in our knowledge and way of thinking. Perhaps we are wrong as well but are we humble enough to accept our mistake(s)?

2. Courage. A question for you readers. Would you have the courage to question the possibility that perhaps what you have held as the truth is perhaps wrong? Never fall into the trap of becoming the ostrich which buries its head in the sand, to avoid seeing the lion. Ignorance is never a good substitute for truth and in truth it is a dangerous state to live in.

3. Optimism. Optimism to look at an idea without criticism. To think well of the messenger as well as the message.

4. Faith. To believe that truth is substantial, and that in searching for it, good things will come eventually no matter how much it hurts in the short term.

Having an open mind means seeking the truth. Remember it is not something external but internal. You could never judge a persons openness merely from outside appearances alone.

An open mind rejects stereotypes. A label you put on a person is always unfair. Look at a person as a PERSON. Not as a Chinese. Not as a Malay or Indian. Not what he wears or come from. Judge him by his merits, from his actions. To know something requires time and effort, never show our own laziness by coming to conclusions based on petty labels and stereotypes.

An open mind strives for improvement and new things. Never be satisfied of the status quo, because what is beneficial does not mean it can be used now or in the future. Improvements needs new ideas and new ways.

An open mind always strive to create a better and happier place. To me this is the ultimate aim for the one with the open mind. To learn and acquire as much knowledge as is possible. All for the benefit of your fellow man and for the betterment of our world. This is when we "act upon it".

Salam.
Mahasiswa Peneraju Keunggulan Ummah