The jaws of power are always opened to devour, and her arm is always stretched out, if possible, to destroy the freedom of thinking, speaking, and writing.” ~John Adams
It’s taken most of my adult life to exercise freedom to be critical in my thinking. And to listen actively. I have learned so much. My father used to say, “a bebul a ngarngii a bebul.” He meant that there’s always someone better, smarter, and stronger. Just as Noah Calhoun said, “Science only go so far, then comes God. (NOTE BOOK, a novel by Nicholas Sparks)
Formulas do not produce perfect people because God created independent thinking individuals.
Brennan Manning writes, Legalists don’t trust God. They trust formulas. Legalistic can never live up to the expectations they project on God. But God is as John said in 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love”.
Independent thinking is the ability to form opinions and make decisions without being influenced by others.
It involves:
Analyzing information: Using critical thinking skills to evaluate information objectively
Considering different perspectives: Being open to different opinions and outcomes
Forming conclusions: Reaching well-considered conclusions based on evidence
Expressing ideas: Having the confidence to share your thoughts and ideas with others
Being loyal to your own viewpoints: Remaining true to your own ideas, even if they differ from others
Independent thinkers are often curious about the world and the people around them. They can be motivated to develop innovative solutions and contribute quality work.
Some of the behaviors or signs of maturity are accepting our imperfections, being proactive, be more objective, not subjective disagree and not take offense because it’s not about you.
Just because you felt offended doesn’t mean you were right.