perspective

I believe that life is all about perspective. If you look really closely at this photo, you can see tiny people down there, they look like ants. Do you see them?

…

I’m just kidding. I took that picture from maybe 4 inches above the ground, but you can trick your brain into thinking it was taken from the sky by just shifting your perspective.

Life is not easy, but I don’t think it was meant to be. If life were simple and easy, there would be no growth nor progress. One of the most satisfying feelings for me is the feeling of accomplishing or overcoming something that was really difficult. Take rock climbing for example:

The first time I went rock climbing was almost two years ago. The friend that took me was an experienced climber and was capable of doing some of the tougher climbs. Although he did a decent job of teaching me how to climb and a great job encouraging me, I did not make it up the wall once because the climbs were just too difficult and my strength was limited.

The next time I went climbing, I tried some easier climbs and I made it to the top multiple times. With practice and by pushing myself to improve little by little, I was able to complete some of those same climbs that were once impossible to me. It feels so good to make it to the top of that rock wall after struggling and strategizing and working through it.

Sometimes when we are in the thick of a challenge, we cannot see a way out. That challenge soon takes all of our attention and our ability to focus is hindered. Every waking moment is consumed by the stress and anxiety and grief that this trial is provoking. It takes time, it takes patience, it takes practice, it takes strategy, to overcome and come out of those challenges on top. It is so hard, but it feels so good when it is all over.

Today I was looking back at experiences that I have had that have shaped me into the person I am today. A lot of them are difficult challenges during which I didn’t see a way out. Looking back I can see how one challenge was preparing me for the next, like stairs in a giant staircase. I have learned so much.

It’s difficult to keep things in perspective when you’re in the thick of an issue. But step back, remember what really matters. Breathe. Take a moment for you. Make a list of things you can’t control and allow yourself to stop worrying about them. Do what you need to do to overcome and keep your perspective.