Perception is everything.
The way you perceive the world around you is completely different from the next. Why is that first impressions are everything? How can you judge someone solely on the first few minutes you’ve spent with them?
Perception.
The reason some people view the world in black and white, and some in color. It always amazes me when I speak with different people and I hear their views on things. Being an open minded individual means staying true to your beliefs, but being open to hearing other people’s perspectives. That doesn’t mean changing who you are, or even agreeing with them. It just means being able to have intriguing conversations and intellectual debates. It also doesn’t mean that you must always touch on the subject. I think sometimes people forget that. They think if someone doesn’t have the same mindset, same values, they must argue their defense and try and force the other person to feel the same way. If there’s one thing I’ve learned is that ignorance is all around us, and we as human beings are all ignorant on one level or another. Controversial topics and subjects that hit close to home are always going to yield conflicting opinions. It’s not always worth the debate and often times it will leave you feeling more upset than anything. Perception.
Nature vs. Nurture. Do we truly have the power to change who we are based on our surroundings? Our experiences? Or do we already posses all the qualities we are meant to have the minute we are born? I think both play a part. You are who, and what you surround yourself with. Your friends, family, and the people that surround you everyday at work or school, all affect you.
Perception.
Optimism vs. Pessimism. Is the glass half empty or half full? Does every year just bring you closer to death or are you celebrating another year of life? Was it a bad experience or lesson learned?
Perception.
The difference between he said, she said, and the truth. What separates different kinds of artists and how they portray their talent to the world. What differentiates the dreamers and the go getters. The procrastinators from the hard workers.
Perception can alter the facts. Let a murderer walk free. Let an abuser continue to victimize. Let a child be placed in the care of the incompetent.
Perception can turn turn a joke into a cruel statement, or a tragic experience into a blessing. Turn someone from a friend to a foe, or a best friend into a lover.
Perception in a way is flawed logic, and to each its own. How you perceive yourself is how others will perceive you. Only you have the power to change your views, broaden your horizons and live life the way you choose to.
What’s your perception?

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Copyright 2015 Christiana Parisien