17. Changing Perspective Changes Perception

Seeing an intricate image close-up can show a lot of detail that we could have otherwise missed. As we step further back, it reveals more and more until the whole image is in our sight. This kind of changing perspective gives a greater understanding of the whole picture. I am sure that no one would argue with this. The question is, how often do we think about applying this principle to any given intellectual challenge or problem?

When I first started to experience considerable degeneration to my eyesight, all I could feel at that time was loss, grief and panic. It was only when I asked myself the question, ‘How is this going to serve me?’ that I opened up to the possibility that I can do many things but just differently. It could still be a fulfilling and valuable life. This changed perspective has brought incredible experiences that have given me deeper understandings that may never have occurred otherwise.     

As I have learned to apply this principle of looking at things in as many different lights as I can, I always find something new, which in turn provides a deeper understanding. The beauty and wonder of it is that these new perceptions bring forth more and more possibilities and clarity which did not exist previously in my awareness.