We really do see things differently

I am the one

We can see the fifty-seven amongst the green dots. We can see the number in the other circle too. We can see things that other people can’t in all walks of life. We can see how things could be improved. We have theories about what we think really happened in notable events. We push these theories hoping that people will listen, but most of all to prove the doubters wrong. We will feel most elated if our theories turn out to be correct and our beliefs vindicated. We will feel most superior and obtain the deserved moniker, a prophet of prescience. We knew we were right to stick firmly to our beliefs. We held firm despite all the scepticism. We lamented others for not sharing our opinion. We were the brave ones that kept our head above the parapet and not followed the herd-like majority. It would be a dream come true if one could demonstrate to the whole world, or at least to your clan, that you were right and everyone else was wrong. And best of all you managed this before you died. However, for each success story in this realm, there are countless others that go to their grave convinced that they were right but didn’t have their beliefs widely validated. The dissenter wants to be that one brighter individual that proves that they were justified in uncloaking the devil, preventing the target from getting away with something.

Self-belief can pay dividends, but many are unable to reappraise their beliefs. Some never stop to consider whether they are wrong in any way. We think that since something is supported by so many people, it must be right. How many were forced, coerced, cajoled into a belief system? How many would have taken it seriously were there not so many adherents? You may see something that worries you - are you going to find out more before you alert others. Things may appear out of place, but it may tun out to be all fine.

How many musicians make it to the top of their profession? Not many. Many think they will achieve global notoriety when they see others attain worldwide acclaim with mediocre songs. Random fortuitous luck plays a part in what propels the minority into the spotlight. It goes without saying that if you don’t try then your chances are zero, but there is only a physically small space at the top. The more you try to fit in, the greater the dilution. The more well-known artists there are the less well known each one becomes.