you don’t see me

 

It seems that the very thing that makes photography such an intoxicating and individual craft is also what can create the most friction between people. We see things differently. Our perceptions colored by a litany of things too many to list, that inhibit our ability at times to understand how and what another sees. No doubt it’s this that really is at the root of all conflict.

I used to try so hard to convince people of the validity of my point of view, and to attempt to open their minds to what is surely my right way of thinking. But I am learning that one’s own perceptions cannot be thrust on another and forcibly understood. And just as others can look right at me and not really see me, I most certainly am not seeing them either.

So what do we do? Do we all simply agree to temper our passions and create the same innocuous image over and over again just because it’s readily understood and accepted by everyone? I’m not sure I’d want to live in a sedated world such as that, no matter how conflict free it may be.

I don’t think that there are any easy answers or quick solutions to soften the discord we so often experience together. Maybe all we can do is continue to create our own pictures, noticing and honoring our preferences as we go along, and place more attention on that which we want and that feels true, than what we don’t want. Only then can we perhaps attract like-minded individuals and know the glorious feeling of really being seen.

~Cynthia

Strangers passing in the street
By chance two separate glances meet
And I am you and what I see is me.
And do I take you by the hand
And lead you through the land
And help me understand
The best I can.
~Pink Floyd “Echoes”