"Las únicas verdades son verdades personales."

When you hear that "the only truths are personal truths," it boils down to the idea that truth is subjective—what you believe to be true is shaped by your own experiences, perceptions, and feelings. Unlike universal truths that are the same for everyone, personal truths are unique to each individual. This perspective suggests that our understanding of reality is deeply personal and can vary widely from person to person.

Consider the historical context. This idea has roots in existential philosophy, particularly in the works of thinkers like Søren Kierkegaard and Jean-Paul Sartre. They pondered over the nature of existence and the individual's role in defining their reality. After all, what is true for you might not hold the same weight for someone else. These philosophers argued that personal experience and individual perception are crucial in defining what one considers to be true.

Let's bring this down to earth with a real-life example. Imagine two friends, Jane and Mark, witnessing a car accident. Jane, who has recently lost a family member in a car crash, feels a wave of panic and believes the accident was horribly severe. Mark, on the other hand, sees it as a minor incident because he’s had years of experience as a paramedic and knows the signs of a truly critical situation. For Jane, the truth is that the accident is catastrophic. For Mark, it's a routine fender-bender. Both are interpreting the same event through the lens of their personal experiences, and both are convinced of their version of the truth.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by recognizing that your truth might not be everyone else's truth. When you’re in a disagreement or trying to understand someone’s point of view, remind yourself that they’re speaking from their own unique experiences. This can foster empathy and better communication. Instead of insisting that your perspective is the only valid one, try to see things through their eyes—ask questions, listen actively, and be open to the idea that more than one truth can coexist.

To illustrate this, let’s dive into a scenario. Picture this: you're at a family dinner, and the topic of best holiday destinations comes up. You love the mountains and start raving about your annual trips to the Rockies, convinced there’s nothing better than the crisp mountain air and stunning views. Your cousin, however, swears by tropical beach vacations—sun, sand, and the sound of waves. You can’t fathom how anyone would prefer the beach over the mountains, and they’re equally baffled by your preference for the cold. Here’s where the idea of personal truths comes in. Both of you have personal truths shaped by your experiences—maybe you associate mountains with family bonding and happiness, while your cousin finds peace and relaxation at the beach.

In this situation, acknowledging that personal truths vary helps you appreciate your cousin’s perspective without feeling the need to challenge it. It’s not about convincing them that the mountains are superior, but about understanding why the beach holds a special place in their heart.

Ultimately, embracing the concept of personal truths can transform the way you interact with others. It encourages you to approach conversations with an open mind and a willingness to understand different viewpoints. It's about recognizing that each person's reality is shaped by their own unique journey, and that's what makes our world so diverse and fascinating. So next time you find yourself in a debate, pause and remember—everyone has their own truths, and that's perfectly okay.