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"真実は千通りに言い表すことができますが、どれも真実でありえます。"

Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda Monk
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Quote meaning
Truth is like a diamond with many facets. Each angle shows a different glimmer, but it's all the same stone. This idea simply means that there are numerous ways to express a truth, and all can be valid. Think of it like everyone has their own lens through which they see the world, and these perspectives shape how they articulate what’s true for them.

Historically, this idea isn’t new. It’s been around for ages, popping up in different philosophies and religions. For instance, in Hinduism, there’s a notion called “anekantavada,” which suggests that truth and reality are perceived differently from diverse points of view, and no single perspective is the complete truth. So, when someone says this, it’s often to highlight that we shouldn’t be rigid in our thinking and should appreciate different viewpoints.

Now, imagine you’re at work, and there's a big project with a tight deadline. The team is stressed, and everyone’s got their own way of handling it. Sarah thinks the best approach is to break the project into smaller tasks and tackle them bit by bit. Mike believes that working longer hours and pushing through will get it done faster. Both are suggesting different strategies, but each comes from their own experiences and beliefs about what works best. Sarah’s method might be more sustainable long-term, while Mike’s could get quick results. Neither is wrong—they just reflect different truths about the best way to work under pressure.

So, what can you take from this? When faced with differing opinions, don’t dismiss them outright. Instead, think about why the other person believes what they do. Maybe there’s something valuable in their perspective that you hadn’t considered. It’s about being open-minded and understanding that multiple truths can coexist. In practice, this means actively listening to others, asking questions, and being willing to adapt your own views when presented with new information.

Picture this scenario: You’re having dinner with friends, and the topic of climate change comes up. One friend argues passionately about reducing plastic use, while another stresses the importance of renewable energy. They’re both so adamant about their points that the conversation gets a bit heated. Now, if we apply the wisdom of the quote, you’d realize both friends are highlighting important aspects of a larger truth. While one focuses on waste reduction, the other looks at energy consumption—both crucial in addressing climate change. Instead of taking sides, you could bridge the conversation by acknowledging the validity of both perspectives and suggesting a combined approach.

In essence, recognizing that truth can be multifaceted encourages empathy and collaboration. It’s about seeing the bigger picture and understanding that everyone’s insights are pieces of the same puzzle. So, next time you’re in a discussion and feel that urge to prove your point, take a step back. Consider the other person's angle—maybe even walk around the diamond yourself. You might be surprised at the brilliance you find when you see truth from a new perspective.
Related tags
Diversity Interpretation Perspectives Philosophy Relativity Subjectivity Truth Wisdom
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