Left: Sun and Moon & Right: Dragon and Tiger
And what is free speech? Most conversations have a spark of competition and can inspire a new perception. But sometimes they go too far. Hurtful is often when the speaker does not remember who the listener is. Opinions like underwear need to be changed. The temperament of some is to express with courage and conviction that their ideas are the only ones. Others do not express themselves with the respect for their own words.
What do you believe? The format or structure of a belief system is rarely unique. Usually the main concept is kindness. Whether you prefer many gods or just one, there is insight from the stories they tell. The relationship between Hera and Jupiter was tumultuous and loving. Trying to have control usually means you don’t have any.
Independence means to not rely on others. It does not mean to not listen. Forming an opinion usually comes from hearing different points of view. Eventually that opinion can become set in stone. Evolving is working to allow variables to come in. The repetitive hurt of someone demanding you choose their point of view can be quite concerning. If concentration and focus can be applied the hurt lessens. Distractions coming in a group are good too.
To lessen fear, a very abstract concept, is the goal. Often we see the constant reminders to stay safe as the illusion they are.