The illusion of absolute safety

“As we push the boundary to gain internal truth, we automatically destroy pieces of the illusion of absolute freedom”

      -Gould (1980)

Does this mean that we should not strive for internal freedom? Or that we should automatically believe, without question, that what we have always known is what is true?

What about when your parents told you that if you ate all of your broccoli your hair would grow, or if you walked around a corner without them you would be snatched up by a stranger?

Clearly some of these white lies are necessary when you are a child; in order to keep the child safe.. I mean, who wants the panic when your child runs around the corner and you cant see them for a minute until you turn the corner and see them waiting there. 

However, some of these white lies can make you seem a bit silly when you are older, like believing that your dog went to live at a farm. 

Some of these 'truths' need to be questioned, and it may be the case that they are in fact true, but it is equally possible that they may be false and you might need to rethink a few things. However, it is crucially important that you do confront them. Discovering these truths might make you realise something brilliant, or lead to even better discoveries, or even uncover amazing family secrets!

Be brave, and question the things that you 'know'. Question things that are basic knowledge; when did you learn them? Who told you that? and does it make sense now that you are older?