Two Huge Myths

We have cultivated two huge myths in our culture.

The first is that if we love and respect someone - then we must agree with everything they say or do - even if we think it is not right. 

The second is that if we disagree with someone - we must abandon them, disown them, and stop respecting them. 

We might even start hating them.

Both are not the real test of love and respect.

My son once said to me, 'if I disagree with you sometimes on some issues and some specific topics - or if I don't want to do things exactly the way you want me to do - it does not mean that I don't respect you. 

We may have different views. We may have different ways of looking at things - from different angles - but it does not mean that I don't love you. 

To love and respect someone - we do not have to compromise our convictions and principles.

As they say - we can agree to disagree with each other.

In fact, disagreement about some scientific data and conclusions among the scientists compelled them to find better theories and solutions. 

Disagreement about the basic principles of the universe gave us beautiful Shastras* such as Meemansa, Sankhya, Yoga, and Vedanta - which became the basis of all later religions and ideologies of India. 

More than often, Disagreement and constructive criticism can help us find better ways to improve our lifestyle. 

But, unfortunately, when it comes to family and social circles, we start to think differently. 

We translate disagreement as disrespect. 

Which is not true.

We can disagree with someone - and yet love and respect them.

However, the disagreement should not become a harsh argument - to a point where we lose mutual respect and abandon them - disown them and even start hating them.

                                       ' Rajan Sachdeva ' 

* Six main Shastras of ancient India are -

Vaisheshika, Nyaayika, Poorva Meemansa, Sankhya, Yoga, and Uttar Meemansa (Vedanta)