You are forty one years old and twice in as many months two people have suggested that you look at the 'bigger picture'. As I like art and I am also partial to the metaphors that human beings use to provide structure and meaning to their lives, I have resolved to try to define what the 'bigger picture' means to me. I apologise in advance that this will involve a lot of rambling. Sometimes, progression can only be accomplished when you open up.
On one occasion years ago, a friend made reference to the concept of 'canons' in relation to art. They are works that are deemed masterpieces within their particular genres. In practical terms within art galleries, they are usually positioned to attract the maximum number of visitors and their wandering eyes. They may be on a wall opposite a door. Wherever, they are positioned, they are designed to be looked at. Most of us go through our lives, happy to shine and be noticed but only occasionally. A degree of anonymity provides the space that we need to explore ourselves without the need to be defined by others. Celebrity culture is the antithesis of this, although many celebrities often express that being in the limelight the whole time is detrimental to their sense of self and can lead to periods of unhappiness.
Now allowing for the idea that the 'bigger picture' covers every aspect of life and death, not just ourselves, although we are part of it, where do we start? I guess it is necessary to explore what aspects of our lives have any emotional, spiritual, financial or aesthetic value to us. As such, are we happy in our relationships, occupations and are we achieving our goals? Definitions at least provide us with structures that we can build from or destroy as necessary. I have always been fascinated by the details. The 'bigger picture' has always struck me as a scary concept. It seems to connect with the future and if you suffer from depression, anxiety or any forms of mental illness, that seems like a place that should not exist. Living in the present tense is better than living in the past but only just... Life becomes a series of short term goals.
I had a dream last night involving dying of some disease or other and being given the option of a drug to end it. I came close to taking it but then explained to the supplier of the drug that I felt okay at that moment. I refused it. From a personal perspective, I guess it was my mind's way of telling me that it is now time to make changes. The easy option is not always the right one.
The 'bigger picture' for me is a tapestry as it is the only way that I can relate to the metaphor and use it productively. It is composed of fragments (I still can't escape the details) but at least, I can see the links that exist between the different aspect of the greater whole. Understanding the 'bigger picture' will require me to ask lots of questions and to do lots of unusual things that may be out of character and most importantly, to ask for help.
Are you part of the 'bigger picture'?
Barry Watt - 22nd March 2015
