The Trouble With Assumptions

How often do we determine the answer before the question is even asked, or say I already know exactly what this is about? Probably more often than not, and more often than we should. We have gotten so smart and knowledgeable that many times we know more than the expert in a particular field. We pull out our cell phones or take a moment on our tablets to conduct our detailed search of the Internet and now propose to have all the answers. But wait! Some may say “I don’t use the Internet; I just go with my gut feeling when it comes to happenings in a particular situation.”

Don’t forget those instances when we can tell you more about a person we just met two seconds ago than the very person themselves. And what do we base all of this on? Our very own developed assumptions! Yes, admit it. We assume too much! I must say that in some cases, yes our assumptions or as we claim “gut feelings, hunches and intuitions” are right; but count the number of times we have let our imaginations run wild with a vivid story we developed in our minds about a person or situation.

I will say it for all of us: too many to count! We must be careful what we commit to truth without actually knowing and understanding. So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. Proverbs 3: 4-7

It is oh-so-easy for us to create meaning from nothing and then exert mental energy to support it and later find out that is was a total waste. The next time you decide to make an assumption, stop and think about all the times people have made assumptions about you that were not true. Then be determined to get the facts and not just a gut feeling. We assume in all facets of our lives: work, school, family, relationships, purchases. Instead, choose to get an understanding; if not you may pay the cost of some expensive “bought senses.”

“Your assumptions are your windows on the world. Scrub them off every once in a while, or the light won’t come in.” ? Isaac Asimov
Until Next Time, Be sincere, Kind and Intentional
Jackie Warner, Career Development Facilitator
The Bridge “Where Community Matters”
Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com
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