"People fail to recognize the good things that happen in their lives everyday that the sun rises."
~The Alchemist
When I first read this quote I felt both convicted as well as inspired by its message. All too often I forget how blessed I am with the gift of life itself, as well as, all of the other seemingly insignificant components that fill each day.
As an artist, perception is such a weighty word, thought, and way of looking at the world, both inwardly and outwardly. I may perceive the sun rising through a photographer's lens, a painter's lens or merely a neutral observer's eyes, choosing to attach positive or negative qualities to the event.
As a human being, the mere act of the sun rising may mean anticipation or dread, depending on my mental state, the day's duties, and how I feel that morning. But here is where the quote becomes crucial for truly appreciating the value of life.
It emphasizes that no matter what each day may hold, no matter how wretched one may feel as the sun rises, and no matter who you are, there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for. We have the CHOICE to perceive our circumstances through the lens of optimism or pessimism, hopeful or with dread, or as a curse or a gift.
Therefore, the definition of "Perception" as related to this instance, is: "a way of regarding, understanding, or interpreting something; a mental impression."