Cognitive
Dissonance
The space in between
thoughts and beliefs
where the mind is consistent and not
brain digs heels deeply
reluctant, unwilling to admit mistakes
unwilling to change thoughts
justifying
dissolving truth and reason
dismissing facts
believing the choice is right
because it must be
the longer it is believed
the more certain it becomes
blinded to the negativity
taking sides
heels dig deeper
must prove intelligence
loyalty
stay the course
be comforted
and consequences be damned
because I’m right
Mary J Melange 
The attitude that leads to ruin. It’s so sad to see it play out. The truth of this poem is frightening. Very well done, Mary.
Thanks Dan. When we keep attitudes and ideas open to change, it makes us better able to deal with the fears and myths that cross our path. We’re less likely to say Monday is Tuesday and believe it.
I read an article in May that said when they studied brain activity, the area of the brain that was involved changed as they challenged core beliefs. They said that instead of the area that indicates reasoning being involved, core beliefs trigger our fight-or-flight mechanisms. They said that might be why we hold so tight to those beliefs, even when logic would tell us otherwise. That’s a scary thought.
Very scary, Dan. I think you and I read the same article, because it has stuck with me ever since. I only wish people would stop fighting and start listening.
You did a great job putting that information into meaningful words.
Thank you!
Oh Mary. Painfully, accurately, beautifully done. I monitor what’s going on closely but with the awareness that it’s not my country and fellow citizens that are paying the price. Doesn’t stop me from being shocked and angered day after day. Holding you in my prayers. xx
Thanks Heather. I realized long ago that when someone wants to be right, they find a way. It’s simply more apparent now that too many people suffer with CD and that puts others at risk, both emotionally and physically.
Under normal circumstances they may have got away with it but in a life and death situation like this pandemic, emotional and intellectial intelligence is key to survival. Not having that in the decision-making echelons is a disaster.
I have a book about emotional intelligence, which was very enlightening for self. EI is something that should be in the playbook of all top leaders as it keeps them level-headed, willing to seek out new ideas and information, and be concerned with the welfare of others.
Painfully true Mary. Your style so suits the poem. Artfully done
Thank you so much. I wish this wasn’t so painful, though. Hoping for reason…
Yes, I understand.
CD is such a sad affliction. I believe that there are more men that suffer. Women have always been allowed “wiggle room” with the adage that “changing one’s mind is a woman’s prerogative”!
I’m not sure of the number of men vs. women, but you are correct. I can change my mind any time I want as long as I make sure it’s a sound, educated change.
Too often. Too sad, Mary.
❤❤❤
So right! You’ve hit the nail on the head.
I wish we didn’t have to hit those nails at all.