How Do You Know What's Real?

As my husband and I walked the dogs this morning, I couldn’t help but notice the gorgeous skies.

“AccuWeather predicted clouds all day but look at this sunshine,” I said, grateful for the unexpected beauty, yet dismayed by how often the weather app is wrong. “Growing up, we relied on the newspaper or the TV’s weather forecast. But now, our phones deliver the news in an instant. Still, so often, it’s inaccurate.”

A few minutes later, I continued my observation. “We can pretty much find out anything … the current score of a football game, the price of any stock, or even the status of a Congressional vote as it's occurring.”

“But how do you know what is real and what isn’t?” my husband asked, raising his eyebrows.

“Exactly,” I began, “and with AI, ‘seeing’ is no longer reliable. Sometimes I think it was easier when we were kids.”

I continued to think about this long after our walk. Yes, we can retrieve information from mostly anywhere at any time. In many ways, this immediate access makes life better… or does it?

Is the ability to instantaneously attain news and data guarantee that what we receive is correct, helping us move forward with greater certainty?

One might argue it depends on where you get your information. The same story can appear on both CNN and FOX but be contrary. Hidden agendas taint what’s reported and how it’s shared. Instead of dispensing facts, it’s become a game of manipulation, often leading to division among family and friends.

No doubt, this is a tricky time, like navigating a new frontier without comprehending the rules. Add AI to the mix, and who’s to know what’s real and what’s not?

So, what’s a person to do?

We can’t be ostriches, sticking our heads in the sand and refusing to acknowledge what’s happening around us. Nor, is it in our highest interest to focus 24/7 on the news. Too often it can’t be verified.

Perhaps this is indicative of growing pains as society moves from how it once gained information to today’s methods. We’re on a slippery slope, forcing us to ask ... What is true? What isn’t? And who gets to decide?

In moments of confusion, it’s wise to go within. While something might sound appealing, does it feel accurate? Instead of relying on the networks, listening to others, or believing social media, search for your truth. Take in information from various sources then put the puzzle pieces together to form your own thoughts.

Most of my beliefs formed unconsciously, due to influences from parents, friends, teachers, and those I admired. Yet, I am beginning to recognize the shades of gray on many topics, learning to examine old philosophies and let go of what no longer resonates. Recognizing how news outlets can manipulate information, I now question what I read and hear.

What if we couldn’t google a question and had to research the answer on our own? How would it be if we needed to look outside to determine what to wear that day? And might we think differently if we were not bombarded by a curated feed every time we went on social media?

A goal for 2026 is to rely on my inner-wisdom and intuition to guide me instead of accepting what “authorities” say. Will I get it right every time? Doubt it. Yet, in the process of learning how to discern what is true in my mind, I am learning to trust myself, release limiting beliefs, and accept that what is right for another may not be right for me.

Put down your phone. Go outside. Take a walk. Look at the sky. Then ask yourself what is true for you. You may just be surprised.

Just some food for thought on this January afternoon.