The Thrill and Terror of Knowing: Embracing the Expanding Perimeter of Our Ignorance

There’s a fascinating idea I came across a while back, attributed to the ever-insightful Neil deGrasse Tyson: “As the area of our knowledge increases, so too does the perimeter of our ignorance.” It’s a concept that resonates deeply, particularly as I expand my involvement in the realms of personal growth, diversity, equity, and inclusion. This duality of thrill and terror encapsulates the human experience of learning and evolving.

Imagine your knowledge as a growing circle. With each new insight, skill, or piece of information, the circle expands. But as it does, the perimeter (the boundary between what we know and what we don’t) also stretches wider. Suddenly, what we don’t know becomes more apparent, more pronounced. It’s exhilarating because it means we’re learning, growing, pushing boundaries. Yet, it’s also daunting because it constantly reminds us of how much we have yet to discover and understand.

This idea is profoundly relevant to our journey in recognizing and appreciating the full spectrum of human abilities and experiences. In everything we do, both personally and professionally, we often find ourselves at the edge of what we know, peering into the vast unknown. And that’s a good thing. It means we’re on the right track.

The Thrill of Learning

First, let’s talk about the thrill. Each new piece of knowledge is a building block. It empowers us to see the world through a broader lens. When we learn about different disabilities, for instance, we don’t just add to our understanding—we reshape it. We start to see the nuanced and rich experiences of others. We begin to grasp the complexity of inclusion and the beauty of diversity.

Learning about invisible disabilities can be particularly eye-opening. These are the conditions that aren’t immediately apparent but profoundly impact daily life. By expanding our knowledge in this area, we start to appreciate the unique challenges and strengths that come with such conditions. This new understanding can inform how we build more inclusive communities, workplaces, and support networks.

The Terror of Realizing How Much We Don’t Know

But then there’s the flip side. As we expand our knowledge, we become acutely aware of our limitations. For every answer we find, new questions emerge. It’s like stepping into a room, turning on the light, and realizing it’s connected to a maze of dark corridors.

Inclusion and diversity work is rife with these moments. Just when we think we’ve got a handle on what it means to be inclusive, we encounter new perspectives that challenge our assumptions. It’s humbling and, yes, a little scary. But it’s also necessary. It keeps us from becoming complacent and pushes us to continue evolving.

Embracing the Journey

So how do we navigate this thrilling yet terrifying journey? By embracing it fully. Acknowledge that feeling of discomfort when you realize how much there is to learn. It’s a sign that you’re growing. Seek out those who can guide you through the dark corridors of your ignorance. Build a support network of diverse voices and experiences. Remember, it’s not about reaching a final destination of “knowing it all”—it’s about continuously expanding your understanding and making room for new knowledge.

Practical Steps to Embrace the Expanding Perimeter

1. Stay Curious: Approach every conversation and experience with an open mind. Ask questions and seek to understand perspectives different from your own.
2. Build Diverse Networks: Surround yourself with people from various backgrounds. Their experiences will provide invaluable insights and help you see the world in new ways.
3. Reflect Regularly: Take time to reflect on what you’ve learned and how your understanding has evolved. This helps solidify new knowledge and identify areas for further exploration.
4. Share Your Journey: Talk about what you’re learning with others. Not only does this reinforce your knowledge, but it also encourages a culture of continuous learning within your community.

Conclusion, or Rather Continuing the Journey

As we continue to expand our knowledge, let’s celebrate both the thrill of new understanding and the terror of realizing our limits. Embracing this duality is where true growth happens. By recognizing the ever-expanding perimeter of our ignorance, we stay humble, curious, and committed to building a more inclusive world. And remember, it’s not about knowing everything; it’s about being willing to learn, unlearn, and relearn as we go.

So, here’s to the journey of perpetual discovery. It’s thrilling, it’s scary, and it’s absolutely worth it.