In the heart of the city, where familiar streets and buildings stand, people move with ease. But do they truly see the world around them, or do they only see what they think is there?

When a stranger appears, people’s eyes narrow. They try to make sense of this new person, asking themselves,”Friend or foe?” They judge quickly, comparing the stranger to themselves and slapping on labels.This way of thinking can be limiting. It stops us from seeing the world in a new light.

We become comfortable, but also blind to the possibilities around us.

Imagine walking down a familiar street, only to notice a small, delicate flower blooming in a crack in the sidewalk. You might wonder,

“How did I miss this before?” or “What else have I been overlooking?”

This is what happens when we lift the veil of familiarity. We discover new sights, new ideas, and new perspectives.

But it’s not easy. Our minds are wired to RECOGNISE patterns and stick to what we know. It’s comfortable, but it’s also limiting.

When we only see what we’re used to, we miss out on so much. We miss out on new experiences, new connections, and new understanding.

So, how can we lift the veil of familiarity? One way is to pay attention to our thoughts and feelings. When we meet someone new, do we immediately judge them? Do we assume we know what they’re like based on how they look or where they’re from?

Another way is to seek out new experiences. Try something you’ve never done before. Visit a new place. Meet someone from a different culture.

When we do these things, we start to see the world in a new way. We start to realize that there’s more to life than what we’re used to, and that there are no differences, only varieties.

And that’s a beautiful thing. In the city, people are still walking with ease, but now they’re seeing things they never saw

before. They’re noticing the small flower blooming in the sidewalk, and they’re wondering what else they’ve been missing.

They’re lifting the veil of familiarity, and it’s changing everything.

Written by Victor Kwesi

counselling psychologist

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INSTAGRAM @VICTORKWESIWRITES @theapostleoflight