Zoom in... Zoom out...

So much of conflict seems to result from a lack of perspective taking. Often we’re so in love with our own vantage point, that we can’t see things from someone else’s point of view. Often we lose sight of the fact that most things in life are not competitive, but complementary.

Maybe Republicans and Democrats have some good ideas!

Maybe proponents of abortion and opponents of abortion have some merit to their arguments.

Maybe science and religion aren’t mutually exclusive.

Maybe the world is not as split into two camps as we might like to pretend.

I like to practice perspective taking with my camera. I like to zoom in… and zoom out. And when I do, I get a fuller view of things. I see a richer view. I see multiple perspectives that are complementary not conflicting.

What’s the "best" science? Sub-particle physics, chemistry, biology, neurology, medicine, psychology, sociology, anthropology, astronomy, cosmology? Maybe they all contribute their perspective of truth? (And then the humanities might have more to add!)

Zoom in… Zoom out!

Try it out. Get good at it. Different filters, different magnifications, different subject matters yielding a richer view of the Universe. It’s enlightening!

Favorite sayings... Don't major...

in the minors.

I like to get things done. I like to get the right things done. I like to get the right things done without burning myself out.

I'm generally successful because I’ve learned not to major in the minors.

Many things in life don’t matter. Many difficulties, digs, and dramas simply need to be overlooked: they’re minor. They don’t deserve to be the focus of my time, attention, and emotions. If I let life’s minor irritations become my focus, then I won’t achieve what matters: the majors.

Life is short. Time and energy are limited. If I let the tyranny of the urgent rule my life, then I’ll never get the important things done.

I don’t always succeed in this effort, but I periodically check to make sure I haven’t been sidetracked into wasting my limited resources on things that don’t matter. I’ve learned to prioritize based on my core values. I've learned to move forward towards my goals at a sustainable pace.

I still do many mundane things. I re-create and have fun. “All work in no play makes Jack a dull boy” is still true. I find enjoyment in the midst of life, but I also get a lot done. How?

I major in the majors, not the minors. And when I get off-track, I recalibrate. I adjust. Again.

If it wasn't for the last minute...

half of what I do wouldn't get done.

I'm almost done with a big project. It was sort of due last week, but really needs to be done by Monday. Deadlines: gotta love 'em!

(These are October pictures of a local ball field and some Eucalyptus trees. Fall in the OC.)

Favorite sayings... Wherever you go...

there you are!

Some people find drama wherever they go. Hmmm...
Some people find laughter wherever they go. Hmmm...
Some people find love wherever they go. Hmmm...

What do you find?

I asked a student once, "Do you find that people are usually annoyed wherever you go?"

He said, "Yeah. I sure do."

"Have you ever thought that maybe they're annoyed because you're annoying?"

"Well, it could be..."

* * * * *

What follows me around? Wherever I go I usually find beauty, amusement, even delight, but maybe that's just me. Because wherever I go... there I am.

Wherever you go... there you are. For better or worse.

Make it better!

Favorite sayings... Just try to be...

pleasant and hard working.

That will take you far in the world. Good help is hard to find. Bosses (and co-workers) are looking for those who can walk away from drama and just "Get 'er done." I try to strike a balance between seriousness and good humor on the job. I aim to be productive, but have fun doing it.

Think about who you like to work with and work for. Visualize yourself being productive and happy on the job, and you'll have a picture of a valued co-worker.

Be the change!

Favorite sayings... Those who belittle others...

show littleness in themselves.

Favorite Sayings... To criticize is easy...

to do better may be difficult.