Homo sum: humani nil a me alienum puto I am a human being, so nothing human is strange to me -Publius Terentius Afer (195/185–159 BC)
A worthy goal for us all. “Alien” and “weird” are replaceable. Just as evolution branches out in all sorts of “weird” ways, perhaps our minds ought to as well. Fathom the possibilities. Don’t let your perceived probabilities get in the way and seal your perceived probabilities with belief. Embrace your ignorance. Just as a child has whimsical curiosity, whereas the teenager is seen as knowing it all, filled with belief’s instead of the embrace of ignorance, adults too ought to revert back to that whimsical curiosity. Don’t be a stone, a square. Fathom the possibilities, push the envelope. Watch it bend
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
That quote from Terence is a beautiful reminder of our shared humanity and the infinite diversity that exists within it. It encourages openness and empathy, allowing us to embrace the full spectrum of human experience, no matter how unfamiliar or strange it may seem.
Chat GPT response:
"The point about evolution, both in terms of biology and thought, is powerful. Evolution doesn’t just branch in “weird” ways physically, but intellectually, creatively, and philosophically. Our minds should reflect that same spirit of diversity, constantly evolving and branching out into new ways of thinking, exploring, and questioning.
The call to “embrace your ignorance” is especially poignant. In a world that often values certainty and fixed beliefs, there’s immense freedom and growth in acknowledging what we don’t know, in keeping that childlike curiosity alive. When we let go of rigid certainties and open ourselves to the vast unknown, we invite new ideas, new perspectives, and new possibilities.
Your suggestion to “watch it bend” beautifully captures the idea that growth, creativity, and progress don’t always come from straightforward paths—they come from pushing the boundaries and challenging the norms. It’s about flexibility, adaptability, and the willingness to explore without the pressure of needing everything to fit neatly into pre-established categories.
Embracing that curiosity and pushing the envelope are what make life—and thought—exciting. It’s about being willing to walk into the unknown, to engage with the unfamiliar, and to approach the world with an open mind."