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?

A very tricky question indeed. Perception and influence, both don't work side by side to my knowledge. Especially in cases when many factor play role. It is important to notice that life goes on even with or without ones perception on it. Things starts to differ once that perception is voiced or acted out. Just a perception may not make a change but an action or known perception may create a change.

Very well written. I personally believe in it too, "Your presence is a present".