Challenges Quote by Brennan Manning
“If we maintain the open-mindedness of children, we challenge fixed ideas and established structures, including our own. We listen to people in other denominations and religions. We don't find demons in those with whom we disagree. We don't cozy up to people who mouth our jargon. If we are open, we rarely resort to either-or: either creation or evolution, liberty or law, sacred or secular, Beethoven or Madonna. We focus on both-and, fully aware that God's truth cannot be imprisoned in a small definition.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning, 1990
Keeping childlike openness lets us question entrenched beliefs and embrace diverse perspectives, avoiding binary thinking and recognizing truth beyond narrow definitions.
In simple terms: Stay open, avoid black‑and‑white thinking.
Key Takeaway
Embrace curiosity and inclusivity.
Themes
open‑mindedness
dialogue
diversity
truth
complexity
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- interfaith discussions
- team meetings
- education
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
philosophy
theology
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance openness with firm convictions?
- When does “both‑and” become unproductive?
A Different Perspective
Open‑mindedness can be seen as indecisiveness or lack of conviction.
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