Not Clear on the Details?

The human brain is amazing!  We quickly gather information about our world through our senses, place labels on what we see and experience, and then categorize similar content into buckets or folders.  This helps us easily and readily access our knowledge base when in various situations.

But what happens when:

• We encounter something new or different?
• We misfile information or misunderstand words or actions?
• We go on autopilot and don't pay attention to our "filing system"?

 

Are there times when you don't understand?
~~ Click on image to enlarge ~~
(Photo credit:  Baby Blues, Ricky Kirkman
and Jerry Scott, July 6, 2023)

Yes, our brains are wonderful... but what happens when we don't mind the Mind?  That is, when too much information comes in and overloads our awareness and reasoning.  Like any child reminded to clean our bedroom, we put off any discipline to correct our filing system, to pay attention, to become mindful, and to notice more carefully what is happening around us.

Ruth Asawa, a world-renowned San Francisco artist, created the "San Francisco Fountain."  This elaborate fountain portrays city landmarks and historical events.  When I first stood in front of this larger-than-life artwork, I was overwhelmed.

What details can you see clearly?
(Photo: Ruth Asawa's San Francisco
Fountain - Larry Gardepie)

I realized that I needed to step back and slowly walk around this round edifice.  It was important to take in information a little at a time.  Perspective and appreciation came into focus as I checked out sections with my knowledge of San Francisco and its history.  Eventually, curiosity began to rise within:  What was this symbol or landmark?  Why did the artist place these two items together?  Is there a history I am unaware?

 

It isn't until we engage our curiosity that we actually begin to learn!

Are you quick to put things into place?
(Photo: Restaurant Shelves - Larry Gardepie)

Like Zoe and Hammie in the Baby Blues comic strip at the beginning of this blog, we try to understand through our own experiences.  It isn't until we recognize that we are not clear on the details that we can ask questions.

 

If you are curious about what happens to Zoe and Hammie at the drive-in theater, click here.  Sometimes clarity and understanding happens when we move away from what we know... and explore the details together.
 

Larry Gardepie

Dialogue San Diego Consulting

(click on link for website)