Reactions & Perceptions: A Tree in the Field

There is a beautiful tree standing alone in a rolling green field near my home.

It stands so tall that, when I pass it, I sometimes imagine a giant stepping down from the clouds to play in the grass. The tree looks stunning against the crisp blue sky. It thrives, stays healthy, and shelters countless baby birds who chirp happily in its branches.

A Change in the Landscape

Now imagine this: A large corporation cuts down the tree tomorrow to make space for a new office building.

How would you feel?

• Sad for the tree?
• Angry at the corporation?
• Excited about the development?
• Or nothing at all?

How Perception Shapes Emotion

Your reaction comes from your perception. Read more about perception in The Interplay of Positive Perception, Physical Health, and Vibrational Meditation.

You might see the tree as a safe haven because you once climbed trees and read under their shade as a child. On the flip side, you might see the corporation as harmful because one once shut down a friend’s local shop. Perhaps you feel excited because new buildings can mean new jobs and new opportunities.
Or you might feel nothing. Maybe you didn’t even read past “There is a beautiful tree,” because life feels too full for something that seems small.

This is perception. Your perception.

From Experience to Emotion

Life experiences shape perception.
Perception shapes emotion.
The body stores those emotions — both positive and negative.

But you can learn to shift your perception. You can learn to accept people and events as they are. This begins with unconditional love and acceptance. Learn more about the impact of positive thinking on healing. 

A Question for You

How would you feel about this tree?
Why do you think you feel that way?