An open mind is a stimulus for the influx of knowledge.

I am the product of a type-A businesswoman and a type-B hippie; I am the mixture of a Republican and a Democrat; I am the combination of two very different people. When people meet my parents, they ask one of two things: How did they end up paired together, or how do you choose which one to be more like? Basic "get to know you questions" leave me in a sort of identity crisis because I am a rather odd combination of things that do not fit a single category of people. I have my mom's tendencies to want everything to be organized and in its place but my dad's tendency to procrastinate; I am very sociable when I need to be but I also wouldn't mind living in a bus alone to travel the world; I love structure and lists but I also believe in going with the natural flow of things, unaccompanied by a plan. I do not fit one classification and I am okay with that. Growing up with two very different parents, and many different groups of friends taught me that you don't always have to agree with someone to get along with them.

For many reasons, the best kind of mind is an open one.

1. Keeping your mind unlocked allows for new ideas and new experiences to alter your views. The more information and angles you get on something, the more knowledgeable you will be. You can't say you don't like something if you have never tried it.

2. People are more respectable when they are willing to listen to the opinions of others. If you share your opinions with someone and they immediately discount yours only to begin briefing you of theirs, you will probably tune them out.

3. It can be enlightening. Imagine going from only being able to use a red crayon, to being able to use the entire box full of hundreds of colors. The possibilities are endless.

4. You will have more fun. No one wants to live the same day over and over again, but if you do that is okay. If you're open to new experiences, you may find something different you love to do.

5. Relationships. As someone who could, and did, live alone for a long period of time, I understand the importance of human interaction. If you only talked to people that live the exact same life as you because you are afraid of contrast, you won't meet anyone that challenges your thoughts. You have to step out of your comfort zone to find people that will encourage your personal growth.

There are some important things to remember about having an open mind. Different does not mean weird nor is it bad; a world full of the same people would be boring. It is okay to disagree with someone but be kind about it. It is okay to ask questions but questioning someone's every move is degrading and condescending. Be open minded enough to learn but not so open minded that anyone can come in and feed your brain foolishness.

I am thankful I was raised by two very different people because it taught me to be accepting in kind when other people are screaming their opinions over each other. The best kind of mind is an open one.