The Enlightened Mind
Influence: Some people may be caught by the police for driving erratically or irresponsibly and when tested found to be driving DUI (driving under the influence). I wonder though just how many people may be LUI (living under the influence) of others?
How much of our thoughts or actions are actually our own? Everywhere around us there are others trying to influence us; persuade us to buy their products; follow their versions of politics, religion, beliefs; to accept their slant on worldwide events.
Who decides which version is acceptable or correct? Who gets to decide which labels are attached to us? Who decides what’s going on in the world? (I’ve previously written about labels, link below).
It’s interesting to see just how much manipulation we are subjected to once you start to look for it. News channels that change the headlines to reflect the political narrative, that don’t like to ask awkward questions of those in power in case they no longer get access to sources.
The 1989 Hillsborough tragedy in Sheffield, England, which ultimately led to the death of 97 football supporters and the untold numbers affected by it, was quickly blamed by the authorities on those innocent supporters. The newspapers and news channels of that time had quickly accepted the official narrative and it took decades before the truth of the situation was accepted and those in power apologised for the cover up. However that narrative had been accepted by many people and some still won’t accept the truth of what actually occurred.
Some events are called conspiracy theories and others are called facts but what influences are being used to persuade us either way?
If some have a powerful voice and can out-shout every one else, does that mean that everything they say is true?
Perhaps it’s time we started to use more critical thinking and question things rather than blindly accepting what we’re shown or told by others? It’s time to question the motives behind what we are told or shown. Ask the question, who does this benefit?
Paul.
The Enlightened Mind
For any reading this article that wish to know more or feel they are influenced and would like to change things. Come and speak with us on our next Day of Healing at Crosby Library on Saturday the 1st of February, 10am-1.30pm. All that we do and give on the day is free of charge although we do accept donations if offered to cover the cost of the room hire. Pop in for a cuppa, piece of home made cake and a chat.