I remembered what Dad said once, that some people have all…
““I remembered what Dad said once, that some people have all of life's answers worked out the day they're born and there's no use trying to teach them anything new. "They're closed for business even though, somewhat confusingly, their doors open at eleven, Monday through Friday," Dad said. And the trying to change what they think, the attempt to explain, the hope they'll come to see your side of things, it was exhausting, because it never made a dent and afterward you only ached unbearably. It was like being a Prisoner in a Maximum-Security Prison, wanting to know what a Visitor's hand felt like (see Living in Darkness, Cowell, 1967). No matter how desperately you wanted to know, pressing your dumb palm against the glass right where the visitor's hand was pressed on the opposite side, you never would know that feeling, not until they set you free.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote illustrates the frustration of trying to teach or change people who are closed off and resistant to new ideas, likening it to an impossible, distant longing.
In simple terms: Trying to teach closed minds feels futile.
Key Takeaway
Accept limits, seek receptive audiences.
Themes
communication
frustration
closedmindedness
effort
learning
Mood
exhausted
reflective
hopeful
Type
advice
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- family discussions
- teaching
- mentoring
- negotiations
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
education
Questions to Reflect On
- Who are you trying to change and why?
- How can you recognize when to let go?
A Different Perspective
Not all minds are open; effort may be wasted without mutual willingness.