Being open minded to change

You can't be half open minded. You either are open minded or you're not. There is no half-way house.
 
However I do believe that few (if any) people really are open minded. They may say they are, but and this is why I believe that few people can lay claim to the fact - most people (read 99.99% of the population) bring their own personal beliefs, opinion and hearsay to a conversation and relationship. For example - Most religions are based on the fact that you have to believe in one god, and their god is the only god. Isn't that why most wars are fought?
 
But if people were truly open minded, they would accept that the other person(s) have a valid point and be willing to accept that perhaps there is more than one god.... a truly radical thought....Now I have this image of the "gods" and "goddesses" sitting around "upstairs" having a cup or two of ambrosia discussing the world's problems and issues. Would these omnipotent beings have an open mind? I'd like to think so, otherwise there would be arguments and wars up there too.
 
So just a thought for today, be quick to listen, but not quick to argue. Be willing to discuss all the options - rather than just yours. Because more often than not, the other person is only defending his/her position because they feel they have to. No-one likes to be "attacked" verbally or otherwise - and will come out fighting. Believe me you will be far ahead of the population if you can master this trait, and you will receive far more respect if you do.
 
I hope you have a truly open minded day today.