#14 Perspective

Yesterday was my birthday. I turned 68 by most standards. So, let's say 5 months from now, someone asks me how old I am. What would I tell them? 68 or in my 69th year? Trick question? Not really, at least from my perspective. My wife laughs every time I bring this up. I really don't think she believes my philosophy on this. I contend that when one is "born" until their 1st birthday, they have lived 1 year. Does that sound right? Now we say they are 1 year old. They have completed 1 year of physical life. The day after their birthday they have entered into their 2nd year of breathing air. Technically they are no longer 1 but we tell everyone for that whole year that the child is 1 year old. Semantics you say? Perhaps, but just reflect on what we have held onto for ages. There is no real wrong or right here because after you tell someone your age, whatever it may be, they'll probably forget an hour later anyway. 

When you think about it, most folks see a lot of things differently than we do. I guess that's what diversity is all about. If someones view on something makes them comfortable, who are we to tell them that they are wrong? We should simply smile and move on, leaving them to what they believe at that moment. Who knows, they may very well change their perspective at some juncture down the road. Life has a funny way of giving us opportunities to shift gears on a belief system that has seen better days. 

The challenge I've had working with people who come to me to initiate some kind of change in their lives, is first meeting them in a neutral zone of where they are with their beliefs. Beliefs are precious and they've served us sometimes from the time we were old enough to understand the language we were brought up in. Some beliefs are sewn into the fabric of their family values. I have to respect that and carefully and lovingly show them how it no longer serves them based on where they intend to go. Then introduce new ideas and concepts that better synchronize with their intention for an outcome in their favor. Before long they will have adopted a new belief they can hold onto for as long as they choose to. 

For the most part we find it difficult to accept change, especially if it's thrust upon us. That can happen because we've failed to heed the signs that have shown up telling us that we need to yield, or move or stop. If you listen as you go along on your life path you will encounter times where you recognize that a change is needed. Take your time, and before you consult your family, friends or co-workers, consult with your emotional guidance system. Look at the possibilities first from your old perspective, then from the new one. Now feel. What does your heart say? If you choose the new one and you need help, trust it will show up from the right source for you.