The Power of Presumption: What You See is Often What You Are

“The only barrier to truth is the presumption that you already have it.”— Chuck Missler

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, to presume means “to suppose something to be true without proof.”

How often do we, myself included, get caught up in the cycle of assuming things about others or a situation without knowing all the facts? We presume things about people around us, and just as easily, others presume things about us.

But here's the thing: presuming can cloud the truth. It can prevent us from seeing the full picture.

The Roots of Presumption

The person who presumes may have good intentions, but more often than not, these assumptions come from a place within them that requires attention. Essentially, when we look at others or situations, we are often seeing reflections of what is inside us.

Let me give you an example:

Imagine you find out that your neighbor is a serial killer. Your first reaction might be, “No way! He seemed so nice, so quiet, so helpful.” Now, notice how you described your neighbor — you’re seeing qualities in them that are within you. You might even identify with those characteristics yourself, which leads to your initial shock and disbelief.

On the flip side, if your first reaction had been, “I knew it! I always had a feeling he was hiding something,” it’s because what you recognize on the outside is often connected to what is within you. What we accuse others of or assume about them usually reflects something we need to address within ourselves.

How Presumption Affects Us

If someone presumes something negative about you, remember: What they’re presuming about you is not who you truly are, but rather a reflection of who they are. Their presumption is telling you more about their inner world than about yours.

Although what the person may be saying could feel painful or disrespectful, try not to take it personally. Instead, see it as an opportunity to learn something about the person making the presumption. Their words may be revealing something about their own fears, insecurities, or unresolved issues.

Turning Presumptions into Lessons

The next time you catch yourself presuming something about a person or situation, ask yourself:“What is this presumption asking me to address within myself?”

When we pause and reflect, we often find that the judgment or assumption we have about others is pointing to something within ourselves that needs healing or awareness.

Once you've addressed the issue within yourself, notice how your perspective on that person or situation shifts. The presumption begins to dissolve, and you might even see the situation in a completely different light.

Letting Go of Presumptions

If you're struggling to release a presumption — especially a negative or judgmental one — ask yourself:“What do I have to gain by holding onto this presumption?”

Letting go of negative assumptions opens up space for growth, peace, and understanding. When we stop clinging to preconceived notions, we give ourselves the freedom to embrace the truth of the situation, not our interpretation of it.

After releasing these presumptions, it’s time to turn inward and nurture what’s within you — with care, love, and compassion.

Love and Light

By shifting our perspectives on presumptions, we can clear the way for deeper understanding and personal growth. Remember, what you see in others is often a reflection of what you need to address within yourself. So, let’s embrace the opportunity to grow, release what no longer serves us, and move forward with clarity.

With love and light,Nathalie