A Study in Perspective

I took a photograph this afternoon of the newly opened blossoms on our peach tree. This peach tree bears the most delicious peaches I’ve ever tasted. Early each fall I look forward to relieving the tiny tree of its heavy burden as I pick peach after fuzzy peach.

Today, as I snapped these shots I was reminded of those scrumptious peaches. I could almost feel the juice sluicing down my chin as my teeth sink into the first fruit of the season. While I fiddled with the settings on my DSLR I realized that perspective is everything… not just in photography, but in life.

In this first shot, I focused on the buds in the distance, virtually ignoring the flower closest to me. Too often I find myself doing just that, ignoring what is closest within my grasp. I focus on the broad dreams and aspirations instead of taking notice of the opportunities that exist firmly within my reach. As I studied the shot in my camera’s display, I realized that the ignored bud deserved her due.

This flower has become my new focus. I resolve to take my life step by step. I can still see all those dreams and aspirations lying in wait beyond my flower of focus. They are no less important in my life. But this bud has offered to open for me. So I will accept her offer. I will live each day in the moment. Take each day as it happens. Enjoy every opportunity for what it is and stop to focus on what it has offered me. For today’s opportunity is a stepping stone along the path to tomorrow’s realized dream. Who knew a peach blossom could be so wise?