Day 246: Flashlight

We see the world through the lens of a flashlight, only able to view what is illuminated. Throughout our life, we are able to move the lens, move the light, in order to see more of the world. There are some that choose to see as much as possible and there are those that refuse to move their light. For most of us, our lights shine where we find ourselves, not intentionally guiding the light in one direction or another, only flowing from one spot to the next. What we see is determined by coincidence.

As the light spreads, the more we understand about the world. That is education. What we see does not have to determine our opinion, but it does give us a better view of the bigger picture even if we will never fully witness it. Once more of the world is illuminated, we can then form opinions and values based on knowledge and experience.

If one chooses to believe that the entire world is within their own single beam of light, then they are choosing to be naive. Some say ignorance is bliss, but I say ignorance is a self-made prison. Choosing to move the flashlight into the dark spots allows us to see. Choosing to explore creates a balanced mind.