Perspective. Perspective isn't everything, but it is a lot. Developing perspective takes a life time. Living out that perspective requires a lot of practice. Athletes, story tellers and musicians know that mental rehearsals improve outcomes.
Perspective when well developed is like a motto. Motto's help guide our beliefs about the world.
Beliefs can be correct or incorrect, rational or irrational, rigid or flexible. Some beliefs tend to transcend those boxes. Our perspectives also serve as filters. Filters help us evaluate information.
Here is an example:
No prescription reduced suffering of someone close to me. I read an article about a 5000 year old Chinese remedy for a closely related problem. To our amazement it did not help neuropathy or other neurological problems, but stopped intense nerve itching almost immediately. Most of the articles in the magazine sounded like quackery, but that article made a certain amount of sense.
It took flexible thinking to consider something we didn't understand might be of benefit. Rational thought was it was unlikely to cause harm, and had been in use 5000 years. Most remedies would not last if they were of no value whatsoever, so this became a risk-benefit decision. Belief came with experience, which was repeated and re-confirmed throughout the year.
We all have perspectives. Some are like closely held beliefs. While I can respect another opinion, I cannot agree. Other perspectives are more malleable. Both have protective characteristics.
The first group underscores the importance of character-some things are not for sale. The second group fosters learning, growth and maturity.
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