Lessons from the Zoo: The Art of Fair-Mindedness

Dear friends, today I’d like to share a story from my past that taught me a valuable lesson about fair-mindedness. This tale takes us back to a sunny afternoon at the zoo, a place of wonder and excitement for children and adults alike.

The Incident at the Zoo

As I strolled through the zoo, I noticed a group of children arguing near the monkey enclosure. The dispute was over who would get the last banana to feed the monkeys. Each child believed they had the right to it, and tempers were flaring.

Observing this, I decided to intervene. I approached the children and asked them to explain their reasons for deserving the banana. Each child had a different reason, some more convincing than others. But it was clear that they all believed they were in the right.

The Lesson of Fair-Mindedness

After listening to their arguments, I explained to them the concept of fair-mindedness. I told them that being fair-minded means considering all sides of an argument before making a decision. It means putting aside personal biases and emotions to make a decision that is fair for everyone involved.

I then asked the children to reconsider their arguments, this time thinking about what would be fair for everyone, not just themselves. After some thought, they agreed to split the banana into equal parts so that each child could feed the monkeys.

Applying Fair-Mindedness in Life

Just like the children at the zoo, we often find ourselves in situations where we need to make decisions that affect others. It’s easy to let our personal biases and emotions cloud our judgment. But by practicing fair-mindedness, we can make decisions that are fair and just for everyone involved.

So, the next time you find yourself in a disagreement, remember the lesson from the zoo. Consider all sides of the argument, put aside your personal biases, and strive to make a decision that is fair for everyone. It’s not always easy, but it’s a crucial step towards becoming a more understanding and compassionate person.

Remember, my friends, fair-mindedness isn’t just about making fair decisions. It’s about understanding others, respecting their perspectives, and striving for justice in all aspects of life.

Until next time, stay fair-minded and keep learning.

Kev