Everything that we see, feel, hear and experience is a result of how we perceive the world around us. Although I would gather that most of us have been taught over time that the things that we see in this world exist as we see them, and are real, the truth is that anything that we experience in our lives is a matter of how we perceive it. So, for example, when I look at an upholstered chair, I may see a piece of furniture that is comfortable to sit in. To another person, it could be a piece of art, or something for the garbage dump.
Perception is everything.
So consider the concept when it comes to how we view other human beings, especially persons that seem to be very different than ourselves. Maybe I have a perception that persons of a different racial category than myself are more prone to violence; or maybe the perception that marriage is between a man and a woman. Or the perception that any religious belief that is not Christianity is not valid, not meaningful, not deeply spiritual enough.
I don't hold any of these views currently, but I have had perceptions of persons around me that were based on the way that I wanted to see the world; the way that I chose to view others. My perception was based on the filters that I use, to give the real world a positive, negative, or neutral value. Over time, these become my actual belief systems, based on what I perceive the world to be.
The beauty of perception, although it is quite powerful, it can ALWAYS be changed. So, the way that I see another human being, no matter what I have believed or thought in the past, can always be changed to see them in another way. A way that celebrates their unique qualities; values the things that are important to them; and seeks an opportunity for understanding, learning and growth.
Perception is powerful, and so much more powerful when we see how we can change it in ways to be more open to the world around us.
No comments:
Post a Comment