As the group chatted, I found myself talking fun pictures of the normal things nobody notices – shadows in a window, the reflection of a toy ram in the glass, and the interplay of color and shadows across someone’s feet in soft light. As I toyed with tweaking the pictures with the Photoshop application on the iPhone, I realized a truth I have always had with me. Everything has a unique best perspective. For some, it is up close and personal. With others, it is best at a distance. There are certain views that only make sense when combined with another. In short, there is no single way of looking at something that always gives the whole story. I am not sure if this reflects my limitations or is a commentary on the complexity that naturally comes with any and everyone. Life likes to remind me to step back, let the different perspectives come into focus, and then listen with heart and mind to what unfolds.
I realize that there is a thread that comes through in the lives of many. When a heart is driven by compassion and mercy, even in chaotic storms, there is a sense of peace tangibly visible to others. In contrast, when a heart is driven by a concern or fear of one’s self, there is a natural shadow that one can see from every perspective. There are many ways one can describe the extremes. Ones that come to mind are the blunt words of the Psalmist; “The fists of the wicked are bloody stumps, the arms of the righteous are lofty green branches.” (Psalm 75.10)
Life offers us a chance to walk with more insight than we first realize. If there is a shadow, beware and be warned. Walk carefully and ideally step away towards a safer path. If Love, Hope, and Peace are on display, trust and verify (experience). It may seem like we are walking in the dark, yet we can see far more than we realize.
The right perspective tells a revealing story, opening the door to more.
