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| I like this PERSPECTIVE of Max |
pərˈspektiv/
noun
- 1.the art of drawing solid objects on a two-dimensional surface so as to give the right impression of their height, width, depth, and position in relation to each other when viewed from a particular point.
- 2.a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view.
Perspective is the ability to notice and understand the relationships that exist between things. By things, I mean tangible and intangible, animate and inanimate.
I don't think Max knew too much about art. But I think he had great perspective. I'm leaning more toward the second of the above definitions of the word. In reality though, to have #2 correct (attitude), we really need to understand the first.
Literally, Max's perspective came from about 24 inches off the floor most of the time. He looked up at people. He looked up to people. I don't think he ever thought less of himself because of this. And there truly is a Lesson from Max here... we can lift others up - in our thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions - without demeaning ourselves. True humility, I believe, can only be birthed and grow from a healthy self perspective. Perspective does not mean we have to think little of ourselves - though maybe less about ourselves. (Yes, I still have some preacher in me.)
As a matter of fact, I believe Max had a positive and healthy view of Max. He loved and knew he was loved. He gave and received affection more than freely. Max probably never stared into a mirror contemplating the existential reality of his beingness. But more powerfully, and more deeply existential, Max was content being Max. I never heard him wish out loud he were a blonder Golden Retriever. He didn't jealously watch stories of hero German Shepherds, discounting their heroics. Nor did he ever put poodles down for their poodleness.
I realize I'm stretching it a bit. But hopefully you are catching the point. We choose the angles with which we view people, situations, and ourselves. And healthy perspective breeds contentment, which sets us into position to be the best us we can be. Two things: We CHOOSE our perspective. Secondly, a disclaimer: never confuse contentment with complacency. One is healthy. The other is a choke-hold.
So perspective is art. Perspective is attitude. Perspective matters. We are the artists.* The canvas of our lives is before us. What has been painted to this point is important, but it does not dictate either what we paint next or the final portrait.
Paint away.
For now...
D
*Note: It is my opinion and belief that the most artistic thing we can do is cooperate with the Master Artist who paints the most beautiful life portraits in and through us.
Literally, Max's perspective came from about 24 inches off the floor most of the time. He looked up at people. He looked up to people. I don't think he ever thought less of himself because of this. And there truly is a Lesson from Max here... we can lift others up - in our thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions - without demeaning ourselves. True humility, I believe, can only be birthed and grow from a healthy self perspective. Perspective does not mean we have to think little of ourselves - though maybe less about ourselves. (Yes, I still have some preacher in me.)
As a matter of fact, I believe Max had a positive and healthy view of Max. He loved and knew he was loved. He gave and received affection more than freely. Max probably never stared into a mirror contemplating the existential reality of his beingness. But more powerfully, and more deeply existential, Max was content being Max. I never heard him wish out loud he were a blonder Golden Retriever. He didn't jealously watch stories of hero German Shepherds, discounting their heroics. Nor did he ever put poodles down for their poodleness.
I realize I'm stretching it a bit. But hopefully you are catching the point. We choose the angles with which we view people, situations, and ourselves. And healthy perspective breeds contentment, which sets us into position to be the best us we can be. Two things: We CHOOSE our perspective. Secondly, a disclaimer: never confuse contentment with complacency. One is healthy. The other is a choke-hold.
So perspective is art. Perspective is attitude. Perspective matters. We are the artists.* The canvas of our lives is before us. What has been painted to this point is important, but it does not dictate either what we paint next or the final portrait.
Paint away.
For now...
D
*Note: It is my opinion and belief that the most artistic thing we can do is cooperate with the Master Artist who paints the most beautiful life portraits in and through us.
