Perspective
Sometimes you need another look.
Do you see both mushrooms?
How about now?
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Sometimes the background obscures what normally might stand out.
Sometimes it seems quite clear. The mushrooms are there in every photo, but with the fallen leaves background we have to get a little closer to see them. Such is life. Often we don’t see the good stuff or pleasant surprises until we get up close — we rush by without even looking. Or the bad stuff stands out more prominently like the dark mushroom in the green grass.
It’s not just the roses that we need to stop for. I always stop and smell them, by the way. Sometimes it’s a matter of time delay. A friend once said “pain plus time equals humor”, and that is true. It depends on how much pain how much time is required. Perspective depends on focus and distance. A few deep breaths also help, especially in the case of pain and disappointment.
What have you experienced in your life that improved with perspective? Was it distance that helped, or reexamination up close that helped? Both can be effective but the choice is personal.
I once got fired and it was one of the best things that happened to me because it freed me from a toxic environment, set the stage for a much better workplace, and introduced me to Toastmasters, where I thrive and have met many friends. I “kissed many frogs” before I met my wife and we have been happily married for over 30 years. There was a time when I thought it would not happen, but it came at just the right time and I wouldn’t trade her for the world.
So when faced with bad times maybe take a few deep breaths, step back, and let the pain go. Or crouch in closer, examine it again and magnify the good that you might see. Whatever works for you. And if enough time passes you might find laughter in the process — I surely did.
