Chapter 1: A New Way to View Life

Are you open to exploring a different perspective? If you respond affirmatively, prepare to be surprised by what unfolds.

TUESDAY MEDITATION

Spirit, guide me to perceive the broader picture so that I can engage with humanity through compassion and understanding.

Have you ever found yourself so close to a situation that your judgments and choices became clouded? Imagine if you could view your life through a broader lens. Would this expanded view unveil something new?

We tend to see our fleeting struggles against the backdrop of eternity. Our challenges contribute to an everlasting glory that far surpasses our current troubles, for we focus not on the visible but on the invisible. The visible is temporary, whereas the unseen is eternal.

— 2 Corinthians 4:17, 18

I recall how American football players, particularly quarterbacks, can become so focused on the ball that they lose sight of the larger game. Similarly, police officers and detectives often become too immersed in their cases, and therapists may struggle if they don’t maintain emotional distance from their clients.

My Perspective Shift

A few years ago, while attending a church in Los Angeles, a woman expressed her desire to start a Powder Puff football team. After receiving approval from the pastor, she approached me to join. I hadn’t realized the tough persona I projected until that moment.

For those unfamiliar, Powder Puff football is a non-tackling version of the game for women. I grew up with a brother who taught me how to hold my own, so I was accustomed to a bit of roughness.

Throughout my life, I have primarily played soccer, often in defensive positions. Surprisingly, the coach assigned me to the front line, where my role was to pursue the quarterback as soon as the ball was snapped.

Having been an athlete for many years, I understood the psychological tactics used in sports, which is why you often hear fans trying to distract players.

This was Los Angeles, and even though our opponents were an all-Korean female team, I knew my approach was crucial. I donned a red bandana and dark sunglasses, equipped with cleats for better traction on the grass.

Georgia O'Keeffe, the renowned American artist, once suggested that flying in an airplane could alter one’s perspective. From above, the connections between seemingly disparate elements become clear.

— John Shea

How Perspective Changed During the Game

This was my first sports experience since embracing my Christian faith, and I found myself grappling with the idea of potentially hurting someone—something I had never aimed to do before.

At one point, the player assigned to guard me did not adhere to the game's rules. In Powder Puff football, you're only allowed to place your hands on an opponent's chest. This young woman, who was shorter than me and had long nails, broke those rules by scratching my face. During a break, I approached her and said, "Hey, you're scratching my face when you put your hands on me."

The Observations of Friends and Family

From the sidelines, my friends and family witnessed my interaction with that young woman. As I spoke, they misinterpreted my gestures as intimidating.

When I returned to the sidelines, my brother-in-law commented on what he observed. He offered me a seat, which I declined, perhaps startling him with my reaction. They saw me pacing, concerned about balancing my competitive spirit with my desire to be a "good" Christian. In the past, such internal conflict would not have troubled me.

Over time, I have reconciled this conflict. I trust that God guides us through our inner voices, showing us how to navigate life while honoring Him.

Wearing the bandana and sunglasses was my way of signaling seriousness to the other team.

How Their Views Helped Me Understand Myself

Later, when I reflected on my family's and friends' perspectives, I realized that my choice of attire had altered their perception of me. They recognized me as someone they had never seen before.

The takeaway is that we should value the opinions of trusted individuals. Sometimes, God uses someone to convey a message that resonates deeply, leading to a sense of peace or clarity. If their words initially unsettle you, take a moment to reflect on why that might be. It could be a divinely orchestrated moment.

When faced with difficult decisions, don’t hesitate to step back and adopt a broader viewpoint.

How to Gain a Bird's Eye View

Picture a situation you are currently navigating, such as a challenging relationship. Close your eyes and visualize a space with those involved and God.

Sit with that image for a moment. Where is everyone positioned? What are their postures? Now, imagine viewing it from above, like a bird. What do you observe?

How does the presence of God shift your perspective? What would you say to those involved? How would God respond?

Take a few minutes to reflect on these thoughts. What is God communicating to you? What steps might you need to take to reconcile or adjust your viewpoint?

May you be open to the messages that God has for you. May your spirit find renewal.

If you ever find yourself struggling with these exercises and seek guidance, feel free to reach out to me. It would be a privilege to assist you.

Chapter 2: Engaging with the Bigger Picture

Explore the transformative power of gaining a broader perspective on your life and relationships. This video will guide you to see the bigger picture.

Delve into the art of storytelling and how it can reshape your view of life. This master class will help you communicate your experiences effectively.