In my previous post I gave reasons why being stupid can be a good thing. But it left the nagging issue that Forrest simply framed when he said, “I didn’t want to be called stupid.” That is the problem … nobody wants to be called stupid.
The challenge in attempting to rehab the word stupid lies in its definition. Stupid refers to a lack of ability, while ignorant refers to lack of knowledge.
The concept I attempted to share in Why ‘Stupid is as Stupid Does’ Can Be a Good Thing is removing the stigma of not knowing. Besides being unpleasant to be around, know-it-alls stop themselves from learning because … hey, they already know everything.
Forrest, while clearly slow, didn’t have any problem with the concept of learning. He was open to learning. He showed brilliance in many aspects of his life. Forrest didn’t totally lack ability.
So, if we accept that life is a journey of constant learning, then admitting our lack of knowledge actually empowers us to learn going forward. We’re all stupid! … or more accurately, we’re all ill informed.
But once again, stupid isn’t a nice word. We need better words to describe our lack of knowledge and accept the opportunity to move toward enlightenment without the stigma of being stupid.
Here are 5 substitute words for stupid that I believe more gently describe the human condition and the desire to continually pursue knowledge:
1. Slow
As in Forrest was a slow learner. The good news was he did learn. His learning pace just took a little longer than others. Forrest was slow. Slow is OK, since slow indicates movement and progression. Progress is a good thing.
2. Simple-Minded
As in Forrest viewed the world in a simple-minded manner. We witnessed his brilliance when he shared his view of love: “I’m not a smart man, but I know what love is.” Simple-mindedness allows you see the forest through the trees. It’s about seeing the big picture … understanding that which is most important.
3. Innocent
As in Forrest had an innocent view of life. It’s similar to a child who only sees the good in everything, endless possibilities, and life as one big adventure. Innocence implies total freedom, no restrictions, and guiltlessness.
4. Unsuspecting
As in Forrest’s unsuspecting nature allowed him to trust completely. The opposite would be the person who is suspicious about everything and trusts no one.
5. Naïve
As in Forrest was so naïve he took everything at face value. Contrast being naïve to the person who reads hidden meaning into everything … a person with a conspiratorial mindset. Conspiracists forfeit their freedom to accept even the simplest of life’s pleasures.
Wow! When you think about those substitute words for ‘stupid’ it makes you wonder if being stupid isn’t the smartest thing you could do!
The point is this: We get so darned smart – or we think we are – that we miss out on the joy of living. Stupid is as stupid does!
Next Blog Title: Was Forrest Gump an Idiot Savant?
Next Blog Date: June 30, 2011