THE BIGGER PICTURE

By looking out a window from several stories high in any building, we can see a broader view of any location. Like the picture above- trees, old train, new bus, modern buildings, people, garbage cans, circular city park and so on. Using our observation skills to determine what is there. But really looking! As we watch the scene it is in constant flux! In our lives it is a good exercise to take a step back, up, down or any direction, to gain some perspective and insight. For example, I took clusters of pictures from different stages of my life and family groups- my dad's side and my mother's side that had been in separate albums and put them under one roof- well it really is one album. To see my life together from one place. I weeded some pictures to give to others that may enjoy them better. Seeing a parent as a baby may be enjoyable to adult nieces and nephews. How many baby pictures do I need of my siblings? And duplicates? My view of my family has changed over the years. I am becoming the older generation very quickly as my parents are reaching the end. I find myself wanting to let go of some things but not sure what! When I climb a little higher and view again, it may become clearer! Do you like to take in larger views to reflect on your life? Can you just stop and see what is around you? Hurrying and missing parts of your life can be a habit! Can you find a spot that is enjoyable to you? Look at the picture again- do you see something different now?

INSIGHT

Can come at the oddest moments in our lives. We can be looking at a situation from one direction, then the wind blows and we see it from the new perspective. A new understanding occurs. In a therapeutic process, the counsellor facilitates the linkages between the cause and the effect for the individual. The insight must come from the person in order to gain his/her own personal understanding. The dictionary meaning simply says- insight is the capacity of understanding hidden truths. For all of us, the connections will not be the same. One event does not have the same exact impact on everyone. For example, both my mother and a good friend of hers had lost their mothers at a very young age. One day when Arlene was visiting and discussing circumstances about an elderly aunt that she always helped. She had been very involved in her life even though the aunt did not seem to appreciate it. The aunt was related to her deceased mother. I remember remarking to her that she might just be a mother substitute for her. It was as if a light went off in Arlene's head. She stated do you mean I have been looking for my mother all these years? Insight. It gave her a renewed perspective and acceptance that she would continue to help the aunt. The relationship was vital to her. She had a much needed daughter role. What amazes me about insight is the time it may take to occur! Often in my life, I have questioned myself. Why didn't I figure something out sooner? We can hear our own voices saying the solution was right under our noses all the time. Perhaps we are not ready to accept the insightful meanings to events. Perhaps it is the living and the paths we take that bring us to them when we are ready. Have you had any new insightful moments recently? Do you have a story?