What truly do you see? What stories and emotions emerge when you gaze upon the same image? It’s fascinating how five individuals can interpret the same picture and unlock a multitude of diverse themes and moods.

We are each unique, and that’s a beautiful reality. Yet, we often find ourselves united by shared beliefs and interests, leading us to adopt a shared “vision.” We start seeing things through the lens of those who influence us most, gradually drifting from our own authentic perspective. Suddenly, everything becomes labeled as good, bad, beautiful, ugly, wonderful, or terrible. But are these labels truly accurate?

Consider a flower. Does it become ugly simply because we deem it so when its vibrant colors fade? No. Just like the flower’s natural progression, our lives are not governed by rigid algorithms or formulas. We are living, breathing beings, ever-evolving in the present moment. The flower fades, yes, but that’s a necessary part of its existence, and every stage holds value.

Similarly, we often judge ourselves based on income, labeling ourselves “successful” or “failures.” We look out at the ocean and see “calm,” at the traffic and see “chaos,” at our children and see “our own hopes & dreams.” But are these labels true, or are they merely the “milky filter” we unconsciously apply to our perception?

I confess, I fall prey to this too often. The rain starts pouring, and suddenly, my mind labels it a “bad day.” But we all know we need rain, just as the planet does to thrive. So why the negativity? I believe it stems from our restless mind seeking comfort and safety, urging us to avoid risk. It whispers danger in the rain: wet ground, limited visibility, and colder air. It tells us to stay indoors and complain about how the rain has disrupted our plans. But I choose not to succumb to this negativity. Instead, I pull down the “milky filter” and replace it with “lover’s lenses.” I choose love for myself and for this very moment, despite its imperfections. We may not control the weather or other people, but we can choose our response. So let’s breathe, relax, embrace, and spread kindness. We all need the rain, for it allows us to truly appreciate the sunshine that follows, and it always does.

Remember, the choice is yours. What will you see?