Perspectives

Perspective reminds me of a kaleidoscope.

A  kaleidoscope is:

1: an instrument containing loose bits of colored material (such as glass or plastic) between two flat plates and two plane mirrors so placed those changes of position of the bits of material are reflected in an endless variety of patterns

2: something resembling a kaleidoscope: such as

a: a variegated changing pattern or scene a kaleidoscope of colors

b: a succession of changing phases or actions a kaleidoscope of changing fashions

When I was young, I looked inside a kaleidoscope and I remember how beautiful the patterns were when I turned it around. There was always something different to see.

The  law of reflection, and white light are the basic principles used in making a kaleidoscope. The white light hits the surface of the mirror and is reflected at an angle. Multiple reflections of light create beautiful patterns. Life is like that. We get to see and learn things from different perspectives.

Although I already knew this, I got a repeat lesson on perspective. I was on a walk with friends the other day and we talked about perspectives.  It started because we were discussing how people approach transitions in their life. Do they see it as an opportunity for a new start, or is it something to face with fear and dread?

Not everyone sees things the same way we do- Yes, it’s true! Our experiences color our perspective. We can’t assume that people will see things from our perspective, or… we may forget that there is another perspective.

So what?

Why is perspective so important? Because we can learn from others and become open to new opportunities and possibilities.  We can become better lateral thinkers, better problem solvers and more creative, if we view the information we have like a kaleidoscope. Turn it slightly and something new appears.