Beyond the white picket fence…not so perfect.
Illusion: false appearance
Illusion: you see one thing… but another aspect is also present
Pictures of illusions abound. Nearly everyone is familiar with the old woman/young woman trick on the eyes.
Daily illusions I’ve encountered…
Fashion consultants recommend vertical stripes to create a tall & thin profile illusion
Botox and hair dye create the illusion of youth
Manicured lawns give the illusion of a happy home life
A stylish, handsome family gives the illusion of perfect children
A 3.5 gpa gives the illusion of a well-balanced child
A smile gives the illusion of a happy heart
We all know these can be illusions, yet we continue to play this game.
A family in our community is no longer with us. Murder-suicide tragedy struck. No one knew the apparent struggles behind their doors… not even their church family.
How are we so good at creating illusions about our life??
Why are we so quick (or too busy?) to not see through the illusions?
Your Turn
1) Scratch below the surface to really see what is behind the smile, gpa, well-trimmed lawn, and perfect lives of those around you.
2) Allow the walls of your own illusion to come down. Use your wall-building energy for other purposes!
Posted by Sharon R. Hoover
Photo Credit: Rennett Stowe via photopin cc
One day I had a two separate conversations with acquaintances as I walked through the neighborhood, and both women commented on feelings of loneliness and isolation. How many people sit alone in lovely homes? It makes me sad.
So true, Judy. It takes walks through the neighborhood like you were able to do, to make the difference! I hope each of us takes the time to go and do likewise. :)