Reality vs. perception: This seems a bit confusing to most of us, the ideas that these two words mean different things. But the truth of it is that they are often extremely different. Reality is the actuality of things, what is really happening, without interpretation. Perception is that interpretation of the experience
Let’s say for example that the reality of things may be that you are in a room with people talking very loud. But perhaps your perception may be that these people are obnoxious and rude. This would be your interpretation of the situation.
Our perceptions also get us into trouble with each other, because each of our perceptions are different and yet we believe they are the same. We often believe that others have the same view as us. Then we base our reality on that idea, and get ourselves into predicaments. If we would only realize that we all have our different perceptions, and that reality is often something entirely different, we would not have so many conflicts.
When we look at something from a reality standpoint, we see things for what they really are, without the human associations and interpretations. It just is what it is. As soon as we attach emotions, feelings, thoughts, associations, etc… then we change the reality into our perception. This perception isn’t reality anymore.
If we are to begin to communicate and get along better, then it is important to understand that.
When looking at the picture to the right, you can either look at it for what it really is: a flower that has petals, leaves, and a stem.
Or, you can look at it through perception, in which case, it could mean to you: an evil weed that has the potential to cause hay fever.
This example was just to give you a clearer picture of the difference between reality and perception, and how perception can often affect the ability to deal with people and circumstances. It is important to understand that so that we can all communicate effectively with each other.
