I live by a state border divided by a river and a bridge. People on one side call it the Longview Bridge and others on the opposite side call it the Rainier Bridge (the fact that it is really named after two explorers is inconsequential) their perspective of the name is defined by where they are headed.
With much joy and delight I took the opportunity to reread one of my favorite classic novels, To Kill a Mocking Bird. I did this to help my son make a meaningful connection to literature and life. It was his English assignment, of course, he read it as well; I was just making sure he kept up with his homework and understood the beautiful story.
Harper Lee develops the theme of seeing life from someone else’s perspective. The characters learn to understand people’s actions, views and opinions by learning to walk a day in someone else’s shoes. This is a perspective I can take to heart. Just think how many conflicts, misunderstandings and hurt feelings that might be avoiding if we only take a minute to see life from someone else’s world. I have hurts, insecurities, passions, desires that tend to guide my life. Sometimes for good and sometimes not so good, I am certain other people do as well. Before, I make a judgment or get offended at someone’s actions or words. I will stop and put myself in their shoes. So, the next time someone cuts me off at a stoplight or is rude at the store or my work place. I will consider life from their view. I am sure the view will be more empathy and more compassion to others.
So, whether it is another person's shore or someone else’s shoes, the real gem is understanding life from someone’s perspective.
Becoming Jayne….walking in your shoes.
