the defying mind

it is general human tendency to agree and to disagree on matters. some people are opinionated and would put in their two cents worth at every discussion. some of course think it is smarter to keep their comments to themselves than to air it out in public. whether one is the kind who speaks or doesnt, the fact remains that everyone has an opinion. thus there will be agreements and disagreements whenever you have a discussion.
some people agree just for the sake of keeping the peace around the table where else some disagree for the sake of disagreeing. many factors come into play when a group of people sit down in a meeting and there is a decision to be taken. the harmony among the group of people being the most important factor here. if there is harmony among the people then there will be a collective agreement to disagree or to agree.
my swamiji always says that while discussions are healthy and should be encouraged, he is quick to point out that one should always look for the reason behind one's agreement or disagreement. if someone is arguing to get a point across it is important to know the person's motive.

if he is arguing just because he needs his point of view to be accepted because he is always right, Swamiji says it is not a good thing as compared to someone who genuinely thinks that his idea would be the most suitable under the circumstances, not because it is his but because it is the most suitable. Even then Swamiji says that if the decision is going to cause disharmony then that person better take stock of the situation and withdraw from the equation.

in our centre we have the formidable Ram, the diplomatic JR, the compromising Krish, the philosophical Nat, the ever obliging Sean, the efficient impatient Joey, the no nonsense Rats and many more of different personalities. needless to say heads do roll before some decisions are actually taken. nevertheless we all chug along; humouring the ones who defy for the sake of defying, agree for the sake of agreeing, non committal ones and the ones who soldier on to get things off the ground and moving. my pranaams to all!