From Comprehension to Understanding

In my brain, the difference between these two words is slight, but large enough to matter significantly. By definition, they're pretty similar, but I'm bypassing Mirriam today; bear with me.

It's the difference between knowing which notes to play and knowing how to play them.
It's the difference between seeing someone in pain, and knowing what their pain feels like.
It's the difference between speaking a script, and becoming the character.
It's the difference between being the reader of an autobiography, and being the author.
It's the difference between passing the test, and applying what you learn.
It's the difference between knowing the death rate of children in Africa, and going there and seeing why they're dying.
It's the difference between thoughts and actions.

I think people too often pass through life comprehending a lot of things, but not taking the time to understand very much. Because once you understand something, you're under more of an obligation to act on the knowledge. It would be so much easier to be blind to some things. It would be easier to ignore when things go wrong, to ignore the people in pain around you, and to ignore that not everything can be mended in the way you had hoped. Or would it be? Is ignorance really bliss? Or is it just an excuse to lead an empty life?

Here's my opinion. I think that ignorance is possibly the farthest thing from bliss imaginable. Ignorance is a chain; you can't act when you're under its influence. It ties you down to "comfort," and you never are able to grow. You remain dormant, never really living or breathing. When you start understanding, your eyes open to so much more around you. Some of it will be very painful and unpleasant, but some of it is also very beautiful. After all, you can't taste the sweet without the bitter. And I truly believe, that when you open your eyes and begin understanding, your capacity to influence change becomes greater. I've seen it happen.

Isn't it sweeter, easier, and much more fulfilling to be a powerful influence for good, than to lie dormant, never aware of what truly lies around you? That's what I think, and that's how I choose to live.