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But that's not
end of story. Our mindful curiosity can help us find common ground. In same way, others we see as similar to us become more fascinating as we get to know them better and recognize their unique qualities.
In other words, we need to see both differences AND similarities in order to learn most and increase our awareness of others as well as gain a greater understanding of ourselves. The more we see ourselves as mindful, curious people with an interest in others, more likely we are to continue to engage in world around us with wonder and affection.
This is true for art as well as people. It has been shown that we like art or music that we have been instructed to notice. Of two people shown same unfamiliar piece of artwork, one instructed to notice three interesting aspects of piece is far more likely to report later that they like it.
I love beauty and power of this notion.
If all it takes to develop greater affection for a person, place or thing is simply being instructed to find interesting aspects, then we need to start doing exactly that. By strengthening our mindful/curious quotient, we can ensure our continued development as kind, compassionate, generous and happy individuals.
How curiously simple--and stunningly significant.
Maya Talisman Frost is a mind masseuse in Portland, Oregon. Through her company, Real-World Mindfulness Training, she offers fun and effective eyes-wide-open alternatives to meditation. To subscribe to her free weekly ezine, the Friday Mind Massage, please visit http://www.MassageYourMind.com
