A convergence of stories from two different experiences and continents come together to remind leaders (and really, we’re all leaders) that perception and understanding are both an art and a science …
We were at a park in Kunming, China and we learned that the Chinese often met there to practice their English. They were called “English Corners.” As Dennis and I approached one group, we were quickly surrounded and many of them started asking us a slew of questions in their limited, but understood, grammar and vocabulary. They asked if we had been to Disneyland, how big our home was, what cars we drove, what ice cream tasted like, etc. A little girl, about 6 or so, was standing in front of me and gently pulled on my sleeve.
When I looked down, these big brown eyes looked up at me and quietly but clearly asked, “What does the world look like with blue eyes?” I smiled and looked over at Dennis and said, “Tell you what. I’ll take the ice cream question if you’ll take the blue eyes question. I have thought about that question often and wished I had had the presence to say, “My blue eyes see a very beautiful and open-hearted little girl who will see many things as she grows up and do wonderful things.” Throughout our world travels, I often asked myself what I was seeing and how it made me feel.
Carolyn Anderson Lee
I was intrigued by Carolyn’s story, and I’m thrilled she allowed me to share it with you. Her story reminded me of the above photo I took from inside the shopping mall in the Utrecht Central Station, The Netherlands last summer.
This striking and unique digital art image was created by Marcel van Luit.
I learned that Marcel is globally renowned for his visualized scenarios that are accessible to people on the streets. He states: “My purpose with my art is to touch as many people as possible with my work”. Marcel uses his work to convey life lessons to his sons and the world. He further states that “when you imagine, anything is possible.” In his creative process, he looks through the eyes of a child. (Reference: blowUPMedia)
Marcel’s work also reminds me of decades of multicultural experiences growing up and living across Africa’s vast continent. Throughout that time and further travels, I learned to see the world through the eyes of many different people whom I’ve had the pleasure and privilege to meet.
There will always be multiple points of view. When I said above that perception and understanding were both an art and a science, it’s in recognition of the emotional and logical ways in which we engage with the world and understand others.
Anytime, as leaders, we foster a greater understanding of those we work with and serve; we are better able to bridge gaps and create a more engaged and empowered community.
Keep your eyes and heart open …
