Perception

Perception is a fascinating concept. It impacts our communication and relationships. It impacts the way that we take in and process information. There is also a misconception that perception is reality. This, in my opinion, is closely related to a discussion of absolute truth verses relativism. We may act like our perception is reality but many misperceptions occur. This is especially true in communication. Perceptions can be a window to the core beliefs of individuals. As we experience life, we develop a filter through which we process information. These perceptions get reinforced throughout our life and we begin to believe that they are truth. However, incongruencies, value conflicts, encounters with other people’s perceptions, all provide challenges to our views. Reality is reality regardless of how you or I see or experience it. So, it's not that there are multiple realities but rather one reality that we misinterpret. Since the fall of man (Genesis) our perception has been distorted. Sin creates error in our views, thinking, beliefs, behavior - all of which plays into our perceptions.

1 Cor 13:12 (NLT):
Now we see things imperfectly as in a poor mirror, but then we will se everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows me now.

Holidays

As I looked forward to the holiday weekend, I was struck by the power of these holidays in my life. It occured to me that spiritual holidays are a way of life for my family. Even as I look back at the building of my family, my wife and I had many discussions about merging our family traditions together and creating new ones specific for our us and our kids. It has been an integral part of our marriage, the raising of our kids, and our own growth and development. I know this has become a hot topic in the U.S. culture as the debate over the reference to Christian holidays, like Christmas, in the secular workplace and/or stores seems to increase each year. As I think about the importance in my life and the life of my family I cannot help but think about the opportunities I have missed to explore this topic with clients. It may even be a less anxiety provoking topic to begin to explore the client’s spirituality. Even as I think about the youth that I work with, it could be an easy way to explore family history, spiritual beliefs, and the impact of traditions.

Perspective

I could have titled this entry many things because I have learned many things from this man's life.

On Monday, we had a quest speaker at Youth Town as we typically do on Monday’s. I have heard this man speaker numerous times and he is a great supporter of Youth Town. Jim Jackson is a retired Treasury Agent and has received many awards and accolades. He was forced to retire when he developed Parkinson’s. He is an amazing man and I have had the opportunity to hear his story and perseverance before, but he said something that will stick with me for a long time. He talked about his incurable, progressive disease and stated that he has had to answer the question, “How do I go on knowing that today is the best I’ll ever be?” I cannot even begin to imagine the mental and emotional battle he goes through knowing that his disease gets worse by the day and that he can do nothing to change that. Amazingly, this man has more joy and purpose in life than I can comprehend even looking at my own life, much less taking into consideration his battles. I do not know how I would handle such a situation, but I certainly do not think I would be as gracious and unselfish. He gives his time and energy to help struggling teens find meaning and purpose and to raising money and awareness so that the organization can continue. Ultimately, he takes his best, knowing it will be less tomorrow, and attempts to give it to God by living in such a way that God will be pleased. I am proud to know Jim and to be able to learn from his example.

God, help me to have the perspective that you have given Jim!