Chapter 02
The Fisherman's Rest Tavern
“THE FISHERMAN’S REST” In the kitchen Sally was extremely busy—saucepans and frying-pans were standing in rows on the gigantic hearth, the huge stock-pot stood in a corner, and the jack turned with slow deliberation, and presented alternately to the glow every side of a noble sirloin of beef. The two little kitchen-maids bustled around, eager to help, hot and panting, with cotton sleeves well tucked up above the dimpled elbows, and giggling over some private jokes of their own, whenever Miss Sally’s back was turned for a moment. And old Jemima, stolid in temper and solid in bulk, kept up…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Spot Your Blind Spots
Think of a strong opinion you hold about politics, work, or relationships. Now imagine someone who completely agrees with you and makes you feel brilliant for holding this view. Write down three important questions this person would never ask you, and three pieces of evidence they would never bring up. This reveals where your confidence might be creating blind spots.
Consider:
- •The most dangerous flatterer is the one who confirms what you already believe
- •People who never challenge you might be using your certainty for their own purposes
- •Your strongest convictions often hide your biggest vulnerabilities
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when someone made you feel exceptionally smart or right about something. Looking back, what were they getting from that interaction? What might you have missed because you felt so validated?
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