"私たちは原則と絶対主義を混同してはいけません。"

Sometimes, in our eagerness to stick to our principles, we end up being too rigid, refusing to bend even a little. The core message here is about the danger of confusing a stubborn, inflexible stance with having strong morals. It’s a call to understand that real principles are about holding firm to values but also being open to discussion and compromise when necessary.

This notion isn't new. Historically, we've seen leaders and movements fall because they couldn't distinguish between holding to their principles and being absolutists. Take, for example, the French Revolution. The revolutionaries held the principle of equality and liberty. But when they began executing anyone who didn’t fully agree with their views, they descended into the Reign of Terror. They mistook their rigid, unbending stance for principled action, leading to chaos and bloodshed.

Think about a real-life example: You've probably had a friend who's a staunch environmentalist. Let's call her Emma. Emma believes deeply in reducing waste and living sustainably. That’s her principle. But imagine if she starts refusing to attend any social gatherings where she suspects disposable plates might be used, or she alienates friends who don’t share her intensity. Rather than inspiring others, her absolutism could push people away. Emma's principle is admirable, but her rigid application is not.

Here’s some advice: Hold onto your principles, but don't let them turn into dogma. Engage in conversations, listen to others, and remember that flexibility doesn’t mean compromise of core values—it means understanding and adapting. If you’re passionate about a cause, educate others patiently. Lead by example, but don't judge those who are still learning or who might see things differently.

Let me paint you a scenario. Imagine you’re part of a community group working on a project to improve the local park. You believe strongly in using only native plants because they’re better for the ecosystem. But others in the group want a mix of native and non-native plants for aesthetic reasons. Instead of digging your heels in and insisting on your way, you present your case clearly, providing information and showing the benefits of native plants. At the same time, you listen to their concerns and work together to find a compromise, maybe using a majority of native plants with a few non-natives that appeal to the community’s wishes.

By doing so, you’re not abandoning your principles. Instead, you’re showing that you can stand firm in your values while also being open to collaboration and respect. This approach not only helps achieve a more balanced outcome but also strengthens relationships and builds trust.

In the end, it's about striking a balance. Being principled means having a steadfast commitment to your values. But remember, life isn’t black and white. Flexibility, dialogue, and empathy are crucial in applying principles wisely. So next time, before you dig in your heels, ask yourself—am I being principled, or am I just being stubborn?