We like to think that everyone sees the world the same way we do. And when they don’t, we feel a little defensive.
Impatience
We recognize this tendency when we become impatient with others.
Questioning what they say or do? Thinking they are wrong? Perhaps even doubting their intelligence?
I’ve realized lately, that within my own family, even with so many shared experiences, we still see the world differently.
Personal Filters
We each have our own filters through which we see the world.
That filter is made up of personal experiences, personality, thoughts, choices and life events.
All of which are unique to the individual.
I was recently reminded of the differing perspectives in my home.
My high-school daughter accuses me of forgetting she is still in school. Though I deny it, the truth is, she’s right. I do forget.
She’s at home because of the pandemic, and I want to do something together, such as go bike riding, watch a movie, or complete a deep cleaning project, and she has to remind me that she is still in school.
Part of her filter right now is of a high school senior doing her best to navigate this unprecedented time of finishing her high-school on line.
She has her personal experiences, hopes, dreams, beliefs, creating her filter through which she sees the world
I have my filter of a different stage, seeing life through my experiences, thoughts, and beliefs.
And I have a tendency to think others think the same way.
It is easy to become impatient or misunderstand others when we are merely experiencing life through different filters.
What to do?
What can we do during times of impatience?
One of the kindest things we can do is to remember that others view life through their own filters.
You don’t need to know or judge the experiences that formed their filters.
You just need to remember and look at it as an opportunity to be more understanding, accepting, and forgiving.
Times of impatience then become exercises in growth as we learn to recognize and appreciate that we see through different filters.
With love,
As usual, I love your insights.
Thank you Amanda! Appreciate you! ?
Wonderful perspective, Melanie. There are so many different opinions on this Corona virus thing these days. It’s good to remember that we are not all viewing it from the same direction, and we can exercise patience toward those who’s views are different from ours.
So true Cheree! It’s applicable in so many situations, especially with what’s going on today!?Thanks for commenting. ? Hope you’re doing well!