July 27th, 2021: A clear, sober, hopeful and gracious mind


It is hard to know how to deal.with the vast amount of information we get these days. It is not a bad idea that we become more and more aware of our own biases. It does not help when leaders have become self-serving. When the lack of trust becomes more prevalent, we dwell more on our skepticism. However, we should not give up and try harder to overcome our biases.

We need to understand that the more we know, the less we know. Our behaviors might be simplistic, but that does not always tell the whole story. Simplicity can be the best approach in dealing complexity of the world. When we study further, we come to understand things are more complex than we perceive. Humility and honesty are essential in our quest for truth.

We need to extend our social network and involvement with people we might not have much in common. We need to have the courage to listen and learn from these people. Sometimes, we might discover a new window of wisdom when that happens. Life is not about having an agreement of  our understanding of the world. Life is about learning and growing in our desire to graciously embrace our differences.


Knowledge sometimes can bring a solemn realization of our ignorance. Acknowledging our ignorance is very critical in the process of overcoming our prejudice. We need to take ownership of that realization and some action to correct what is missing. People who prefer to live life with ignorance might limit their understanding of life to a series of slogans. They are cute and catchy, but they provide no long-term benefit to society as a whole.

1 Peter 1: 13-16

"Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.""

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