Things look different when perspective is combined with experience.   

I once saw things this way...

Being the strongest guy in my click was cool... Having some of the quickest hands was my call to fame... Enjoying fighting, because I didn't mind hitting or getting hit... Doing the craziest, most insane type of workouts just because... Thinking I had to be the smartest person in the room...  Thinking my opinion was the best and only opinion... Making sure I got credit for all the work I did behind the scenes...  Concerned about what people who don't know me or care about me, thought of me... Wishing I had the “two birds in the bush” instead of the one bird in my hand...  Thinking the grass is greener there, not realizing it's just more of the same grass I have here... Not thinking the small things matter, they do... Not appreciating getting up and moving around... Better yet, not appreciating getting up and moving around pain-free. 

I now see things this way...  

I remain strong because that might allow me to live longer.  My hands are still quick but I use them to catch a falling grandson instead.  I don't want to get hit so I don't fight.  I work out because I enjoy it.  I'd rather not be the smartest person in the room.  Understanding my opinion is just one data point, a line needs two or more data points to be considered a line.  Finding value in doing the work as opposed to validating my worth based on the result.  Giving a stranger control of my emotional or mental state is unwise and very dangerous.  Wishing for more blessings when I'm already blessed.  Believing a change in situation is better, but in reality, most things are similar, it's how you handle the situation that creates the change.  Doing what you say you will do is more important than promising what you're going to do.  Being healthy mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically is more valuable than the material wealth we destroy our bodies trying to achieve.

I marvel at the fact that I can give many more examples illustrating the impact experience has on perspective.  Before,  I would not have understood that.   

I'm thankful.

Have a great Thursday!

Stay safe!

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