Assumptions; what a lethal mess.

What a reckless way to lead ones decision making.

What a harmful way to step forward in understanding someone.

Is that too harsh of a way to describe it? Maybe. Maybe not harsh enough. I've been victim to assumptions and I've been the source of assumptions. We all assume things about one another and therefore have caused harm; consciously or unconsciously. For example, when you honk your horn at someone in result of road rage, what assumptions run through your head? I bet it wasn't about how nice of a person they are and how much you would love to get to know them. Who were they? What kind of day were they having? Did your honk make their day worse because you couldn't stand to drive 1 mile under the speed limit? Are they a new driver? Did they just experience a car accident and it's their first time out on the road?

Ah, maybe you're thinking "I can't give everyone the benefit of the doubt."

Well, why not?

Maybe you believe things about someone else because you've experienced something similar. Even the smallest factor can influence our thoughts.

In this example, please know I am not pointing blame at you. I am not wagging my finger at you telling you that you're a horrible person for thinking a certain way. That in itself would be assuming something about you. What a cycle, eh? Rather, it's through my experience that I am writing. I am not above assumptions, I am not righteous and pure in this. I'm human. I make assumptions and I'm not proud of it.

If I catch myself assuming something about someone I ask myself, "What makes you an expert on them?"

It happens all the time.

However, some of my favorite moments are when the truth smacks me in the face and I'm left apologizing for having assumed otherwise. It humbles me. It brings me back down to earth where humanity is complicated and complex. Where no matter how much I know, I still have endless amounts of things to learn. I mean, come on, I'm only 24. I will never be an expert of people. And that's exhilarating.

So once again, I must share my experience on how assumptions carry no means of communication, understanding or support. They do, however, carry the risk of bitterness, judgement, and harmful expectations. If assumptions never existed, what would conflict look like. That's a question I ask myself all the time. Could it be that this world would be saturated in discussion, questions, inquiry and respect? Would honor and truth seeking always be at the forefront of our minds?

As harsh as it may sound, assumptions rip the tongue out of the defenseless and leave them voiceless.

And in terms of what it does? Nothing. It does nothing.

At least not that I know of yet.

But who knows, I'm no expert.