I think I’ve realized the problem, or at least one of the problems, that most of us have. We tend to think that other people will think of things the same way that we think of things. I believe this way of thinking is pervasive. Let me give an example of what I mean. I love coffee. I have to have my coffee, daily. If I don’t, well, I have my coffee daily. Now, when some folks hear that I love coffee, they assume that I love Starbucks. Generally the person I am talking loves Starbucks, so they assume that since I love coffee, I must love Starbucks as much as they do. I don’t. I don’t care for Starbucks. I have had their coffee, and it would do in a pinch, but I don’t really care for it. That’s what I mean by thinking that others think the way we do. It’s not accurate, and it could be dangerous.
This problem goes beyond something as inane as coffee. If we assume that others think the way that we do, that could lead to all sorts of problems. I think of the trouble with a certain group of extremists over in the Middle East. They think that everyone else should think the way that they do. In their world, there is no room for anyone to think other than they way they do. That’s a very dangerous way to be.
So instead of assuming that others think the way that we do, I suggest we instead actually listen to each other. So when I say that I like coffee, don’t assume that I like Starbucks just because you do. Assume that I like coffee, and ask me about Starbucks if you’re curious.