Being open-minded is having the ability to listen to other people's opinions, consider them and come to your own conclusions. I don't believe there is just one answer to every problem. Nor do I think that what open-minded people say is convenient. It might even be derogatory but with good means. Maybe it's simply to encourage discussion, provoking emotional outbursts and debates.
Not everyone's likes what we say. Life would be too simple if we could satisfy every person we come into contact with. However, when two or more people are having a general discussion, getting offended or being proven wrong is not a reason to get snappy or judgemental. Living in a democracy we are permitted to have an opinion, that's what freedom of speech is for. Unfortunately many people refuse to accept opinions that are not their own.
I think it's important for writers to have an open-mind. Writers deal with many different stories, people, situations. They come in contact with so many tales of fame, fortune, tragedy, drama and everything in between. In order to write well, they need to not only be able to see two sides to every story but also remain open to new ideas. Sometimes you even have to play devil's advocate.
Teachers, I think are in the same position. In order to teach you have to stay open to suggestions, difference in opinion, and taking sides in order to entice discussion and debate. Usually this works well, problems arise however, when students take offence and don't like your opinion. The best way to deal with this is to change the subject and next time choose a less controversial topic to discuss. However, don't be afraid to play the devil's advocate to keep the conversation flowing.
Do you consider yourself an open-minded person?
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