This is the 3rd of 3 views on perspective. Most mornings I read a paragraph or two from 4 books: Steps to Christ by Ellen White, The Book of Excellence by Byrd Baggett , Daily Drucker by Peter Drucker and The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi. The Book of Five Rings, as told to me, is the Japanese equivalent of The Art of War by Sun Tzu. The Book of Five Rings has transcended the subject of martial arts and has tremendous commentary about life ( written originally in 1644). Musashi states;
“ Observing and perception are not the same thing” and “ …find the state where your eye focus does not change no matter what happens”
What powerful statements about perspective. What are the differences between observing and perception and their impact on perspective? I submit that observing is key to thoroughly understanding a situation or event. I worked with a manufacturing engineer who developed the “bucket” technique. He would take a 5 gal bucket, turn it upside down and watch an operation to see all of the intricacies that were occurring simultaneously. I learned much about engineering by watching him watching. Perception introduces my subjective bias. None of us can be completely divorced from our bias. However, when we clearly observe and seek input from all who have a vested interest we limit our individual bias as we gain the collective wisdom of the group.
What about focus? Musashi suggests it is one of the most critical skills of the accomplished martial artist. Is there really any difference for anyone who endeavors to be accomplished in their respective expertise? Tom Paterson teaches “ Focus is the convergence of all resources for a single purpose. Concentration is the result of sustained focus. Concentrated light cuts glass.” When we focus on our organization, our lives, our relationships, combined with the wisdom of those who are invested with us , we are near the best possible view of our situation. When we are fully in perspective, next steps become obvious.
