The Gift That Keeps on Giving (and Teaches You Too)

I have a nephew living with us for a while.  For his birthday last week, I could not think of a good gift. He’s independent, makes good money and has everything he needs.

So I decided to get him a book. No matter what we have, we can still learn. 

I perused the shelves at my local Barnes & Noble (I love Amazon, but there is something therapeutic and beautiful about discovering books in the bookstore or library). I came across an oldie-but-a-goodie: "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey. I got him the book and the accompanying journal. I read this book back in the 1990s and it changed my life. However, I must admit that I have strayed since reading it.

So back to my nephew. He’s now quoting the book to me and sharing what he’s learning.  Since it’s been a while since I read it, I decided to refresh my memory by listening to the audiobook, which is free on Spotify if you are interested. This book is gold. What hit me in the face (I guess it hit my ear) this morning, was this quote:

“We see the world, not as it is, but as we are - or as we are conditioned to see it.” 

We are all subjective. Our perceptions and opinions are based on our experience, our upbringing and our conditioning.  There is always another perspective, another viewpoint even when faced with the same facts.

Lesson learned - ask questions, but open to a different view, learn continuously, walk in someone else’s shoes

I find that when I have thoughts like these: 

“I don’t understand how they can think that way.”

“Why do those people behave like that?”

“How do they not see that this is wrong?”

“That doesn’t make any sense."

It’s time to reflect. These thoughts can be judgmental, but the actually come from ignorance and blindness. If I recognize that, then instead of judging, it’s time to get curious.  It’s time to ask questions. It’s time to learn.

I hope you take a moment to slow down, take a breath, listen and learn.  We are more similar than we think.

Have a great week!

Camille B.