HUMAN

There is an unconscious mechanism within us where judgment arises as a source of understanding another individual. We may capture a glimpse of an individual while walking past them on the street or through a brief interaction in a public space and create a judgment on them based on our own prior beliefs. The perceptions we hold of others from these surface level interactions is an effortless yet limiting process where we fail to remember that there is more to an individual than simply their physical appearance or first impression. We forget that each individual has a story in which they continue living through each day. We forget that we are human—existential beings composed of a collection of subjective experiences, memories, and lessons that bring stories alive through the creation of memories with others in this world.

To live in a world of judgment brings susceptibility for us to change who we really are. We believe that altering our identity or even downsizing what our hearts desire may help sustain a perfect image which will be perceived in a positive manner and grant acceptance from others. Living in an age where advancements continue to be made in technology has only exacerbated these beliefs, and we have become accustomed to sharing a small proportion of our lives where we continuously live in fear of ever revealing our true selves. What we need to acknowledge is that the way in which we view the world has advanced, however this must apply to the way in which we view our own lives as well.

There is more to each one of us than what is seen on the superficial level. We are composed of subjective experiences and affirming memories that only we have the power to share. We are the evolution of all the struggles that have unfolded into powerful emotional breakthroughs. We are the next generation that has the capacity to leave behind a legacy in a world that requires more love and fulfillment. To understand ourselves at a deeper level than what is simply seen on the surface is a privilege. It is a privilege, because in doing so, we inspire others with our journey to become better than who we were the day before.

It is effortless to conform to the automatic judgment that forms within your mind. We may not have the opportunity to learn every single component of another considering how dense one’s own collection of life experiences are; however, I do hope that you develop the awareness to change the way in which you perceive others. In doing so, the foundation of understanding and value of perspective taking becomes an opportunity to further enhance the development of natural, authentic connections in your life. Regardless of how others may perceive you, it is important to acknowledge that you are ultimately in control of your own story. You have the freedom to live unapologetically and to make the necessary changes to further improve your lifestyle.

I hope you allow the world to see you as who you are, rather than who you should be. The way in which we tell our own story holds the capacity to touch a heart. Our existence itself has the ability to bring each one of us closer to one another. It is up to us to inquire deeper than what is seen at mere surface level to ultimately discover the most powerful force of all—human connection.