Learnt something new in interactions, today. Felt even more open-minded, accepting other belief systems. Observed a few interesting comments during casual discussions – “I’m a tolerant person, give me credit”.
There’s a difference between merely tolerating different opinions and accepting them. Tolerance implies we don’t mind, even though we may not agree with alternative ideas. But accepting views, beliefs means we understand their perspectives, validity.
To see beyond appearances helps grasp actual truth that lies beneath seemingly different beliefs. Going beyond tolerance to acceptance, we learn the new – creative frontiers!
The fine distinction between tolerance and acceptance is the difference in our own attitudes. When we merely tolerate, we’re quietly judging, believing them to be wrong, misguided. But, an attitude of acceptance understands we are saying the same thing in different ways, both are potentially meaningful.
People speaking different languages say words with the same meanings, although to a casual listener it seems very different.