29 Aug 360° Perspective

Bouj mentioned the importance of having a community so that you can see life from a 360° perspective. So often when we encounter problems, we see them in a limited way. However, what if we were able to cultivate solutions and see the blessings behind them, potentially? And to find a way to overcome an uncomfortable journey. What if you allowed someone to show you? Would you be open to it and vulnerable?

When I am writing this book, I imagine myself coming back to it when I am older. I see myself feeling shocked by what I was willing to share. To be vulnerable is to be brave. Writing this book within the past three years was an uncomfortable process; however, it helped me grow. To the point that the habits I had in the past no longer feel familiar. I even question my old way of thinking. And that is what growth looks like.

I had interactions with Bouj where I shared that I did not feel comfortable letting you know about my life. I felt funny about it because it’s private. And I always questioned what you would gain from it, since I am in my 20s (25 now). Bouj hated it when I said that; he believes that people can definitely learn from me. Just like how elders learn the importance of simple aspects of enjoyment that children tend to have. Like playing with friends, laughing at silly things, and eating their favorite snack. I remember one day I was at the bookstore, and this lady had four kids with her. They were all just chilling and eating cookies, and one of the kids, who was probably about 6, said to her, “This is the best day of my life”. The warmth in that lady’s eyes and the genuine attitude from that kid almost made me tear up. It was beautiful to be able to experience that from my perspective, and I trust that something as small as that moment will stick with me forever. That kid could have fallen while playing tag with her friends, and yet, she still ended up eating her favorite snacks with those that she cares about.

So, I bring this to say that seeing life from a broad perspective allowed me to value the simplicity of things. To be patient and open to the blessings that are around me. Feelings like anger and impatience can make the lens hazy, but when you have someone in your corner who helps you see the love that’s present, like eating a cookie with friends, then life seems beautiful.

– Yani