I went for a walk recently. My destination was the top of a mountain with a breathtaking view. When I got there, I looked out in one direction and saw rolling hills, trees, blue sky, and beautiful boulders. Then I turned slightly to the left and the view was completely different. I saw a small city with houses, backyards, and an occasional swimming pool. As I started to turn again, I quickly realized that I was about to take in another completely new and different view. That is when it struck me that life is the same as the view from a mountaintop. It all depends on how we look at it.
When looking at ourselves, we often tend to look from only one direction at first. Many of us look from the direction that sees only shortcomings and flaws. Some of the negative qualities we perceive in ourselves have some basis in reality. But if that is all we are looking at, we are missing the full picture. When we begin to consciously observe ourselves and contemplate the question "Who am I?" we realize that we are multifaceted - unique in many ways and also very much alike.
Figure out what is important to you and what makes you happy. Examine with great attention what you love and what you dislike. Determine what is most important to you and what you really don't care much about. Look at these things objectively, without judgement. Leave no stone unturned as you get to know yourself and learn what makes you the wonderfully, uniquely special person that you are. (Adapted from No Body's Perfect, K. Kirberger)
