Cookie mogul Wally Amos is fond of quoting the saying, "The mind is like a parachute. It functions best when opened". When we open our minds to the possibilities, objectively analyze information, and refuse to allow our personal preferences and biases to influence our judgment, we are able to perceive great truths that have been overlooked by others.
A closed mind, though, can cause us to miss out on some of life's greatest offerings. When we find ourselves disputing the facts, or if we continually attempt to revise those facts to support our beliefs, we would be wise to ask this question: "Why am I so unwilling to accept this information? Is it possible that my judgement is being governed by a shallow paradigm?"
The worst mistake we may ever make is trying to persuade ourselves to accept a false truth. It is inappropriate to try to fool others, but when we fool ourselves, disaster is sure to follow.