It’s almost
time for Americans to vote for our next president. Our current one has already
served two terms; he cannot run again. Those who choose to vote must sort
through the sea of contradictory information out there and decide who and what
they believe.
Choosing the
next national leader is a huge choice that comes along only once every four
years. Other decisions may not seem to be so life-changing. However, some of them
will have long-term repercussions of either a positive or a negative nature.
Common Sense
In this day
of instant, real-time information from a variety of confused, angry sources,
it’s crucial to have the ability to grasp the truth. Our financial, social, or
academic status may not help us with this. In addition, shoot-from-the-hip,
passionate decisions are usually counterproductive. What will aid us is rational, objective thinking.
You can’t
inherit common sense, learn it online, buy it, or learn it through a book or
classroom. Usually, you have to earn your Masters of Common Sense through the
School of Hard Knocks. The program is exclusive to that university. However,
don’t worry; there are many openings in that area of study--due to low
enrollment. After all, how many people actually prefer
to learn anything the hard way?
Don’t sign
me up!!!!!!!!!!! Oops, too late! Can I drop out? Pppplease? I want a refund!
Who do I need to talk to?
Defining and Exploring Common Sense
I came
across an excellent WikiHow article, called “How to Develop Common Sense.” It defines the term and informs the reader how he
can cultivate it:
- Familiarize yourself with the purpose and meaning of common sense. The Merriam-Webster dictionary calls it “sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts.” Karl Albrecht calls it “practical intelligence”.The gist of the term is that we don’t want to overcomplicate anything. Also, we want to apply experience and general knowledge.
- Understand the ease with which the mind believes false things—even against evidence to the contrary. Don’t be stubborn.
- Divorce yourself from your “reality”. Open yourself up to learning.
- Get in touch with your reflective mind. Do less, think more.
- Think and react quickly, when appropriate.
- Learn the basics of common sense:
Nutrition, your environment, budgeting,
your body
Thinking for yourself, basic repairs,
advance planning
Safety, Community Involvement, Resourcefulness,
Basic communication (written and
spoken)
- Change your way of thinking. Cultivate flexibility, acceptance, and positive thinking.
- Weigh every word and action carefully beforehand.
My Conclusion
“My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out
of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for
you, an ornament to grace your neck.”—Proverbs 3:21, 22 (NIV)
Common sense is one of the best indicators that we’re making
beneficial choices. This term reflects practicality and homespun wisdom that resonates
deep within our souls. It’s innate. We can exercise it in relation to many
everyday situations, such as: how we treat others, what we eat, our thinking
patterns, and our financial habits.
How have you cultivated
common sense today?
