People in Western society have an inclination to think in terms of black-and-white, and either-or. They tend to lose sight of the gray areas of life.

"Overall I have found much that is impressive about Western society.  In particular, I admire its energy and creativity and hunger for knowledge.  On the other hand, a number of things about the Western way of life cause me concern.  People there have an inclination to think in terms of 'black-and-white,' and 'either-or,' which ignore the facts of interdependence and relativity.  Between two points of view they tend to lose sight of the gray areas.  Also, with thousands of brothers and sisters for neighbors, so many people appear to be able to show their true feelings only to their cats and dogs."

The Dalai Lama

Photo: Shadowy rocks appear through the mist; Gem Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO; October 5, 2012