Be Still. Be Free. Be Content.

After examining the effectiveness of my relationships recently, I found that many of thedifferences I have with other people are simply my misunderstanding of their perspective. I’vecome to realize everyone sees life through a different “lens”. Our lens is shaped by many things;our background, those around us, our education, our group activities, and the list goes on andon. Because these experiences are unique to each person, it’s impossible for us to see life fromthe same perspective. Using mindful practices, I have discovered that instead of arguing withsomeone about our differences, I learn more if I simply ask, “Why?” This answer usually solvesthe differences between us and creates further discussion and connection. Together, we oftendiscover that although we may do “It” or see “It” differently, the “Why” is inherently the same forboth of us. Sometimes, the path to getting there is much different, but we all want what’s best forourselves, our family and our friends. Understanding the “Why” is what can bring us all together.

My brother, Chad, [read about his story here] saw the world much differently than most of us,because he was given a very unique lens. A lens that I think allowed him to give valuable andunique insight. He wanted happiness, peace, equity, sustainability and love for every generationto come (and for his team to win the Super Bowl…of course). No one person’s path will ever bethe same as ours. We should embrace our uniqueness and always keep an open mind toother’s fresh perspectives.