“Nothing makes a man more broadminded like adversity.”

— Will Rogers —

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I’m a lifelong follower of the wisdom of Will Rogers and have read much of his words but still have volumes more to digest. He just had an absolute talent for saying things in simple terms. The two key words in this very short quote are Broadminded & Adversity. Let’s take a deeper look at them.

• Broadminded

Broadminded is an old-age word that isn’t used much today. But I kinda think each of us should be required to say the word everyday of our lives. If that were the case, it might finally sink into our hardened hearts and minds.

The below definition of the word says it all:

A broadminded person is someone tolerant and accepting of different opinions, beliefs, and behaviors that differ from their own, embodying openness, flexibility, and a willingness to consider diverse perspectives rather than adhering to rigid or traditional ways of thinking. They are not easily shocked by unusual acts or ideas and often approach the world with curiosity, seeking to understand rather than judge, which fosters empathy and connection with others.

• Adversity

Adversity is of course all the challenges we face in life, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Almost all of us have our adversities in life and if we don’t then that is an adversity in itself. Without adversities sometimes means you are prone to see yourself as “Privileged”, and that is a tragic thing.

Simon and Garfunkel’s song “Richard Cory” immediately came to mind when I thought about those not appearing to have adversities.