[fpalmans]

Sometimes it just takes a long time for something to sink in. That doesn't mean one doesn't understand the concept, or accepts a statement as being true before that deeper understanding is found - as evidenced by your example.

It is probably a very common phenomenon.

I have doubts with your neural net analogy. Probably it's running similarly the whole time, but occasionally finds a better/faster/more optimal way to process data. Your brain is probably working exactly as it should.

Don't be embarrassed, be happy you improved and look forward to the next improvement.

EDIT: forgot to answer the question; how to cope! I use a simple rule of thumb; if one person makes a statement, I listen. If a second person makes the same statement, I think. If three or more people make the same statement, I accept it and trust understanding will follow. Unless, of course, the statements are verifiable false...