Point of View

Every story needs somebody to tell it.

We hear a lot about POV (point of view) in the writing world, particularly in fiction. Deciding whether or not to write from the first person or third person, POV is something we writers must decide on before writing the first word. Then there's deep POV, where we work to draw a reader's emotions out.

I've decided to write about point of view today, because I think it is vitally important in our own lives as well. How do you perceive things? Are you skeptical? Or do you prefer to wear glasses with rose-colored lenses?

How is it that one person sees a glass of milk half empty, while another sees it half full?

There are many elements to consider with regard to POV. The way we see the world hinges on a number of things: our genetic make-up, our personality and our experiences. Holding a strong opinion about something can be an important virtue. But when we are no longer teachable, we become the kind of kooky character nobody wants to be around.

I'd like to leave you with this challenge. The next time you feel dead set on an opinion about something, consider the opposite opinion held by the person sitting across the room from you. Roll it around in your hand, study the different facets of possibility. Vibrant color always reflects off of a heart that seeks to value others.

Which deep emotion have you generated in others due to the way you live your life? Point of view can mean the difference between freedom and chains.