We've all experienced that pricelessly awkward moment when someone tells us about their Next Big Plan, and it turns out to be something that's laughably stupid and pathetically unachievable.
But don't try to reason with them! They'll beam blissfully as they explain why the plan is a sure bet. Any attempt at a rational analysis of their chances will be dismissed, and they'll scoff at our negativity. Not having a prayer of success doesn't seem to bother them.
In this moment, I find myself wondering how the person arrived at their current state of delusion. They have stumbled into a void of reason - but how? Did it happen in a flash of misguided inspiration? Or did they build up to is, one questionable idea at a time?
What need drove them to consider something so irresponsible and foolhardy? What temptation blinded them to probabilities that seem obvious to just about everyone else? Were advisors involved in putting ideas into their heads, irresponsible friends or colleagues? Authors of books that don't hold up to scrutiny?
Why is the human mind, with its incomparable power for processing information and making decisions, capable of making disastrous decisions and doing so eagerly?
It's fascinating, but when it happens to our friends and loved ones, it's nothing short of tragic.
Copyright © 2014 Daniel R. South
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All Rights Reserved
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