Our perspective is shaped by the world around us. That includes the people around us, the experiences that we persue, ensure and build and the places we visit and inhabit in this lifetime.
This memory just gets me. I remember this day and this moment with crystal clarity. Looking back on it, it didn't even occur to me how lucky we were to have access to all these people, places and things to do in the world.
Who would have thought that a moment of gratitude would spark such discourse inside me three years later, showing me again how much gratitude was in my heart and how much I took for granted, still.
What's changed in the world since this day has less to do with the physical attributes of the world than with the way it's portrayed by media and government, prescribed by social media and interacted with by individuals.
I would surmise to say that the real estate between our ears has changed more than the world has. That is; our perception has most likely changed more than the physical landscape of our world. Of course, that change ultimately shapes behaviors, which will in turn shape the world and our relationships within it.
My point?
What's the difference between the world that exists before our eyes and or perceptions of it and how important are the influences over our perceptions when they shape our actions and relationships and therefore the landscape of the world?
Concluding with a question is a dirty trick, so I'll leave you with this:
As much as the world may seem to have changed in the last few years, know that you are still loved, admired and cherished and that your presence is absolutely precious, yearned for and needed in this world.
On a more selfish note, your physical presence on this planet makes my life more full, meaningful and complete and I yearn for a time when we will see each other's smiling faces and share some space together to chase our best and happiest lives and capture moments with gratitude and appreciation.
Much love you bunch of beauties. Your presence will always be a present.