We Mock What We Don’t Understand

If you’d asked me 6 months ago if I ever thought i’d have a girlfriend, i’d of called you insane.

In my 22 years on this earth i’d always considered myself a lone ranger.

When my friends would spend multiple days or weeks in a row with their girlfriends i’d mock them for being ‘simps’.

I just couldn’t comprehend wanting to spend that much time with someone.

Especially when you have all your mates just here, ready to go out and enjoy a good time with you.

I projected my subjective experience on to those around me.

I feel independent therefore you must too.

The mocking continued for as long as these relationships lasted — with some of them still going to this day.

Not in a horrible, degrading manner but more so in a fun, joking, friendly way.

Regardless of the context, i mocked what i couldn’t understand.

That was until i met someone.

Someone that i connected with on every level.

Someone that i love spending inordinate amounts of time with.

Someone i understood that understands me.

Reflecting back on my previous mockery i know that i only poked fun out of ignorance.

I had never personally experienced this myself; thus, how was it acceptable?

What i failed to realise at the time is that everyone’s experience is different.

My life doesn’t equal yours and therefore seemingly idiotic decisions for myself could make perfect sense for others.

I now wonder how often our judgement is misdirected.

How often have you made fun of, mocked or argued against something that you haven’t had personal experience with?

How can you judge something when you’ve never played that game?

I’m trying to be more mindful about my thoughts, decisions and apprehensions.

Part of that is learning that although you’re the main character in your own story, you’re simply an NPC in the grand scheme of things.

I read a quote somewhere about the weakest person in the room being the loudest and the strongest person being the quietest.

In my limited time here on earth i’ve found that to be true.

Before forming opinions or declaring truths, think about what you say and the possible implications.

Don’t be afraid to speak up, but make sure there’s conviction in your words; only speaking of those words that you can stand behind resolutely with absolute confidence.

We mock what we don’t understand because we fear what we do not know.

Instead of tackling the unknown with fear, aggression and conflict, handle it with care, empathy and curiosity.

Never assume your own perfectitude; if anything assume you’re always growing and adapting.

Forget mocking and start learning.

As Always,

Yours Honestly,

Commodore Pipas.