Most things are not…simple and pure, with so much focus given to each syllable of life as life sings itself. But that kind of attention is the prize. To be engrossed by something outside ourselves is a powerful antidote for the rational mind, the mind that so frequently has its head up its own ass–seeing things in such a narrow and darkly narcissistic way that is presents a colo-rectal theology, offering hope to no one.
~ Anne Lamott
Bird by Bird. p. 102
It is a wonderful goal to see the good in things, to relish moments, to celebrate the daily joys, to dwell on the positive. It’s not always easy. Looking closely can also mean seeing more clearly, taking off our rose coloured spectacles and really looking at a situation, searching for a solution or an understanding. Is micro or macro view the more rational one? Does it depend on what you’re looking at?
Shawn L. Bird 