By overlooking details in everyday life, we tune out humanity and trivialize aspects of our own life. Being observant is underrated. Though often suppressed by media stereotypes and conformist ideals in society, depth in culture and individual personality and soul still exist. One just has to be perceptive enough to see it.

Reality can be intense. It is essential that a person filter details about the world in some form. If one absorbed everything, she would likely be overwhelmed. Therefore, perhaps being perceptive does not require absorbing more physical information but, rather, being selective. For example, one may observe that a man is sitting on a park bench, but may not notice that he nervously shifts his legs.

In observing people, the most important question to consider is why. Cynicism comes from lack of empathy. Each person has a story that can affect her actions. In daily contact with strangers, noticing details often creates better communication and better interaction. The observant viewer has an advantage because she simultaneously participates and does not participate; she has perspective of the situation.

In observing details of the passerby, one is no longer a tourist. She exists in the present and has increased awareness and increased empathy through observing multiple angles. One is open to experience and open to exchange of experience. Because she is aware of the free will of others, she is aware of her own free will, thus aware of her actions and statements. Collectively, to know others is to know one's self and may create a more compassionate world.

Learn more about this author, Grace Ryan.
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