What is a mistaken idea?

Answer 1

A mistaken idea is one without logic or proof. As examples:

1. A person where you used to live didn't like your family. But you moved from your old neighborhood to a different area, and that person doesn't know where you live now. You come outside and see a new scratch on your car. Someone says, Oh it must have been that person who hated our family--he must have done this! But your mom says, Oh that is silly--he doesn't even know where you live now.
2. You see your best friend talking to a guy you like. IF you immediately think, "My friend is trying to flirt with the guy I like!" you might be wrong. You have no proof of misconduct.
3. You find a package in front of your door. You think the mailman left it where it could get wet and you're upset. Instead, the mailman left the package with your neghbor. You neighbor knew you'd be home by 3pm, so she put the package at your door where you'd see it.
4. You have 4 children and one cookie jar. You come home and see the cookie jar on the floor, empty. Cookie crumbs are everywhere! You yell for your kids to "Come here!" But, just then, Spot your dog comes and has an upset stomach. He vomits up pieces of cookies. Ugh.
5. All the lights and appliances in your house will not work. You immediately think you forgot to pay the electric bill. But you look outside and see all the street lights are out. Your neighbors' houses are dark. Later, you learn someone's car hit a utility pole, and knocked out the transformer. Within hours, your electricity is back on.

Mistaken ideas usually mean we jumped to a conclusion or we lack correct information.