Meaning: The quote "Our consciences are littered like an old attic with the junk of sheer conviction" by Wilford Cross addresses the clutter and confusion that can accumulate within our minds as a result of strong beliefs and convictions. It suggests that our consciences, much like an old attic filled with various items, become crowded with the remnants of our unwavering beliefs. This quote invites contemplation on the nature of conviction, conscience, and the impact of deeply held beliefs on our inner selves.

At its core, the quote speaks to the complexities of human consciousness and the profound influence of conviction on our thoughts and actions. The comparison of the conscience to an old attic filled with clutter evokes a sense of disarray and disorganization within the mind. It highlights the accumulation of beliefs and convictions that may not necessarily serve a clear or constructive purpose. Much like the items stored in an attic, these convictions may be forgotten or neglected, yet they still occupy mental space and influence our decision-making processes.

The phrase "junk of sheer conviction" suggests that the beliefs and convictions we hold may not always be beneficial or constructive. They can become burdensome and overwhelming, much like the accumulation of unnecessary items in an old attic. This can lead to a cluttered conscience, where the presence of numerous convictions creates a sense of confusion and inner discord.

Furthermore, the quote prompts us to consider the origins and implications of our convictions. Are they based on rational analysis and critical thinking, or are they the result of unquestioned adherence to certain beliefs? The term "sheer conviction" implies a sense of unyielding certainty, raising the question of whether such convictions are open to introspection and reevaluation. The accumulation of such convictions in the conscience may hinder our ability to see things clearly and make informed decisions.

Wilford Cross, the author of the quote, invites us to reflect on how our consciences become cluttered with the remnants of our convictions. This can be interpreted as a call to examine the nature of our beliefs and their impact on our inner world. By acknowledging the clutter within our consciences, we are prompted to consider the necessity of decluttering our minds from unproductive or outdated convictions.

In a broader sense, the quote may also allude to the potential for personal growth and introspection. It suggests that by examining and decluttering our consciences, we can strive for clarity, coherence, and a deeper understanding of ourselves. Just as clearing out an old attic can reveal forgotten treasures or create space for new possibilities, decluttering our consciences may open the door to personal transformation and a more nuanced understanding of our beliefs and convictions.

In conclusion, Wilford Cross's quote "Our consciences are littered like an old attic with the junk of sheer conviction" invites contemplation on the clutter and confusion that can arise from deeply held beliefs. It prompts us to consider the impact of our convictions on our inner world and encourages us to strive for a clearer and more introspective understanding of our conscience. By acknowledging the clutter within our consciences, we can embark on a journey of self-reflection, growth, and the pursuit of a more harmonious inner landscape.