Understanding Perspectives

I find it fascinating what other's see. It really is so interesting to find out what other people take out of a situation. A family member of mine went to the doctor the other day and when asked his opinion of the man he simply said- "He was very clean. Shiny." This made the rest of the family laugh because most of us would have picked adjectives that were specific to his abilities as a doctor, or to how this doctor made us feel as his patient. Knowing this family member pretty well, makes it easier to understand his perspective. Then, there is the classic example of the car accident witnesses. A group of people witness the same event, but each have different and sometimes conflicting statements. The reasons for the differences are countless. Everyone sees a situation their way, the way their brain interprets it based on their cognitive abilities, and emotional responses.

 Understanding other people's point of view is a universal challenge. I'd say the lack of understanding leads to most conflicts throughout the world. There is "right and wrong" when it comes to some disputes but most situations go a lot deeper. It's necessary to take into consideration some background to an adversary's point of view in order to get to the root of the argument. It takes some work to peel back what's being said and discover what's not being said. It is our own defenses that make it difficult for this important step. We react to what is given to us: what we hear, and what we physically see. 

It can be so simple, and so relieving when two people come to an understanding. When they find a common relation to one another. It could be something so small but nevertheless, it brings peace. When this happens it's like seeing that person for the first time. It's relieving to both sides because the negative emotions involved with the dispute can then be let go of. 

We can never really walk in another person's shoes- we will not have the same exact experience, but it is a good practice to look at things a different way. It promotes progress. It makes moving forward so much easier. A positive perspective is always best, in my opinion. Best for moving forward and best for   overall well-being. It's true that the more positive feelings we put behind something, the better it works out. Intention really is everything, and believing in something is powerful. Before we can even form an opinion, we have to have a ground. This ground makes everything more clear- our beliefs, our opinions, our perspective, and our ability to understand others. The truth is everyone is born with a root and it is this root that connects us to who we are and to each other.