perspective

This week had me revisiting the definitions of Perspective and Perception.

Perspective: a point of view; a sense of proportion. Perception: a way of regarding, understanding or interpreting…

In this sudden change/disruption of what seemed solid…what seemed unshakeable in my own life, I have been working to view it all from multiple directions.

For the most part, we naturally see things from our own perspective, but I have been curious about every angle, for as long as I can remember. Sidenote: Curiosity wasn’t necessarily encouraged but has remained a constant companion for me, since childhood.

Despite the deep pain and sadness which, at times, has been so heavy, I have been taking time to view the good, the bad, the ugly, the shocking through lenses opposite mine.

Since the divorce process started, I’ve been doing this regarding all aspects – the years prior to marriage, the engagement months, the life and death of the marriage.

I’ve heard it said that perception is reality.

Are we open to genuinely view our perception/reality from all angles? If not, are we limiting ourselves in some way?

Many words have been thrown at me, but I carefully hold it all up to the Light and see if Truth is present.

If no Truth is present, I find healthy ways to release (so that my body isn’t holding on to the negatives). If Truth is present, I take the time to process so that I can begin applying it to my life.

Some moments/days it may be too difficult to see a different view and that is alright.

Breathe. Take your time.

Be gentle with yourself

and

Challenge your Perception to gain true Perspective.

A healthy perspective keeps us grounded/centered/secure.

Positive energy, Prayers and Power to you as you move forward to face all angles of Perception (yours, mine, theirs, ours!), discard the lies, process the Truth and gain Perspective.

Common Day Hero: You have consistently been a Champion for humans, but especially women. Your boldness, brilliant mind and brave heart are the cause of freedom for many. I AM committed to warring alongside (and for) you.  JuR, I dedicate this post to you.

current

Current…as in an electric current is what’s on my mind today.

Living in a first world nation has us accustomed to quite a few things: high-speed internet, WiFi, running hot water within seconds, electricity without interruption, fridges with water dispensers, mobile phone charge lasting for days…ok, weeks…just to name a few!

On the thirteenth of February, the weather changed to unusually cold for Texas and I knew plans would need to be changed…on the fourteenth of February, snow fell and actually stayed with us.

On the fifteenth of February, our electricity went somewhere…on vacation? More snow fell and at first the kids thought it was so cool…an answered prayer. They made a snowman; it turned out looking scary like a halloween snowman, but a snowman nonetheless!

After two days though, my Texan kids were done with snow days!

Unlike when Covid first hit us, we couldn’t watch TV, couldn’t get online, couldn’t play outside (for long!) and had no electricity multiple times during the day and night.

It caused my kids to think about the homeless more; on their own, they added the homeless to their daily prayers. Through the years, we’ve contributed to various organizations that help those who are homeless, but this is as close to really feeling it/empathizing as the kids have come.

It gave us perspective. Through the lens of this week’s events, the kids and I created a “gratitude list”.

Some things we gave thanks for are: electricity, running hot and cold water, food (anytime we want it), a gas stove/fireplace, winter/warm clothes, blankets (a bus load!), candles, flashlights, battery operated LED lights and the winter wonderland (snow covered yard).

Now that constant electricity and running water and internet and WiFi are back, we give thanks for those things as well. We are also grateful to have use of the oven and microwave. We baked cupcakes and crescent rolls and pizza and then I was back to reheating day-old coffee in the microwave (yah, I’m one of those!).

Which first world items are you grateful for this week? What has you gaining/shifting perspective now?

And here’s another reminder that this whole LOVE and African American/Black History month, my friend at Out of Hiding is offering the LOVE(period) collection BOGO (buy one, get one FREE!). Get a shirt, hoodie or tote for you and someone you love…quick! When you purchase, you’re supporting a local business owned by an African American/Black/Chocolate sisTAH of mine! Let Out of Hiding know that LALIjean sent ya!

Common Day Hero: When I didn’t have an accurate picture of African American/Black/Chocolate life in America, you shared riveting stories of your own experiences. I so appreciate your authenticity, your counsel, your prayers and the way you live ~ full of grace. Uncle Joe and Aunt Rochelle, I dedicate this post to you.

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