What do you see, the forest or the trees?

We've all heard the phrase, 'Can't see the forest for the trees'. It's over 400 years old and was recorded in 1546 in John Heywood's, 'A Dialogue Containing the Number in Effect of all the Proverbs in the English Tongue'. He wrote, 'Plentie is no deinte, ye see not your own ease. I see, ye can not see the wood for trees'.

This phrase suggests that details can impede ones general view of something, that we lose view of the whole.

Some fail to grasp the main issue because of over attention to the details and not necessarily that they are taking in the details for the sake of enjoying them. While some are so impaled by the details it keeps them from finishing something, others sweat so many of the small things that they just miss entirely the bigger picture called life.

While I agree that we should all be aware of the big picture I also believe that it doesn't really matter much if we can't or choose not to take in all of the yummy details that make it so exciting. Just not in a way that it keeps our sight  from the forest. There needs to be a good balance between the trees and the forest.

But I think when it comes to life the opposite is true and that so many people are too close to the forest to notice the trees. Most of the time it's just as simple as taking a few steps back in order to realize there are details in that picture called life. Some very important details that need the consideration of our time and priority.

That it's not just about the destination (forest) but also about the journey (trees). And just as in yin and yang, one does not exist without the other.

This picture is what I see. . . the forest is still in view, but I haven't lost sight of all the beautiful trees along the way. It's what keeps me sane and what reminds me that I'm alive! I'm trying not to sweat the small things while keeping in perspective the details that matter most.

I was reminded of that this weekend, as I learned the news that my son's friend's father passed away. There are some details in life that we can not go back and notice. That sometimes there are no second chances.

So today, I hope you take in some of the details knowing full well the forest is still there and waiting. Open your eyes, listen and breathe.....feel your heart beat, and taste the wonders of life!!

Love to you all,

Kim XO