We often face the expectation to hold a single opinion on a topic. However, some topics have conflicting sides, and some things can hold two truths simultaneously.
Realizing this requires a different kind of intelligence and open-mindedness. It is not the same as being wishy-washy, flippant, two-sided, or simply saying what others want to hear. It is an honest understanding that a topic can hold two differing truths at the same time.
Discerning intelligence and open-mindedness allow us to view a topic from multiple perspectives and understand both sides. This is different from simply having an opinion and understanding someone else’s perspective while still holding your own. It is being able to hold two differing truths because you clearly understand and can acknowledge both as valid simultaneously.
These topics require nuanced thinking and introspective critical reflection, recognizing that both sides can exist in tension. Societal expectations often pressure us to choose only one side, which can make it difficult to acknowledge opposing truths.
Here are some topics that often hold multiple sides and perspectives: the right to die, paying salaries to college athletes, animal product testing, cities or states funding athletic stadiums, and artificial intelligence. These topics can evoke strong or mild opinions and often lead to deeply opposing views.
It is important to acknowledge that we can hold opposing views, even within our own minds, without it being inconsiderate or indecisive. Critical thinking skills can reveal that we are capable of understanding and accepting two truths at once. This is a strength, not a weakness.
This type of thinking does not always come easily, but it supports fairness, empathy, and broader awareness.
When I tried to think of a personal example, I thought of being prayed for. As a psychic, people often pray for me. I believe in God and in prayer, so receiving prayers is usually a blessing. However, sometimes these prayers do not come with that same energy or intention. Some are aimed at changing me from believing my psychic gift is from God to believing it is from the devil. These prayers come with the intention of removing what they believe is a negative influence.
I grew up believing prayer was a blessing, a gift from God. Now I see that some prayers come with a different intention, a desire to change what I experience as a God-given gift. Instead of feeling supported or embraced, I sometimes experience them as conditional or conflicted rather than purely blessing-based.
People who send prayers for someone to be cured of a terminal illness may also be imposing a specific outcome rather than allowing space for whatever unfolds. Sometimes it is important to send prayers with hope, but without attachment to a specific result, as this can reduce conflict and allow space for a wider understanding of what healing may look like.
It is possible to hold both truths at once. To offer love and prayer, and also to release control over the outcome. To hold belief and uncertainty together. This is where deeper emotional and spiritual intelligence can live.
I hope this helps. You may have a better example.
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