Many times we assume things and then strongly believe that our assumption is right. But if we don't keep an open mind, we may land in trouble.

A ship had been at sea in bad weather for days. As the visibility was not good because of a heavy fog, the captain stayed on the bridge to keep an eye on all directions. Suddenly the lookout on the bridge cried "I can see light far away." The captain shouted to the signalman, "Signal the other ship: We are on a collision course. It is advisable that you change your course 30 degrees." The signal that came back read, "You are advised to change your course 30 degrees!" The captain said to the signalman, "Send to him: This is the ship's captain. Change your course 30 degrees immediately to avoid collision!" "I'm a seaman second class, "came the reply, "No, I repeat, you change your course immediately to avoid collision!" The captain became furious. He said to the signalman "Send: This is a US battleship, the second largest in the United States. I demand that you immediately change your course!” Then came the signal from the others. "This is a lighthouse! Your call!"

The above story is a good example of the pitfalls of assumption. Many times we assume things and then strongly believe that our assumption is right. But if we don't keep an open mind, we may land in trouble.