In the realm of human experience, the concept of love has often been portrayed as blind, but is it truly devoid of sight? Is it merely a matter of perceiving through the heart, or does the complexity of judgment cloud our vision? These questions linger as I navigate the intricacies of personal perception and societal constructs.

As I reflect on my interactions, I realize that my written words often serve as a mirror, reflecting not just my thoughts but also the intricate web of societal expectations and personal biases. It’s as if the world gazes back at me through the lens of collective consciousness, and I am left pondering whether what I see is truly my own reflection or a projection of societal norms.

A simple exchange with my mother unveils layers of perception. Her compliment on my appearance leads me down a rabbit hole of introspection. Do others truly see me, or do they merely perceive what they want to see? The realization dawns that our vision is often colored by our preferences and preconceptions, shaping our perception of reality.

Even in the purest form of love, judgment lurks in the shadows. As I welcomed my daughters into the world, my initial examination was tainted by the need to ensure they met societal standards of beauty and health. Yet, beneath the veneer of judgment lies a love so profound that it defies rational explanation.

The blackout of 1977 serves as a poignant allegory for the nature of perception. In the darkness, two mothers find themselves stripped of sight, forced to rely on instinct and feeling. As they cradle their newborns in the dim light, judgment fades, replaced by a visceral connection born of necessity.

In that fleeting moment of intimacy, devoid of sight and societal expectations, they experience a profound sense of presence. It is a reminder that true perception transcends the confines of judgment, rooted instead in the depths of feeling.

As I contemplate the nature of perception and love, I am reminded of the heart’s remarkable capacity to transcend boundaries. Beyond its physical confines, the heart emits signals that extend far beyond the realm of sight, reaching out to touch the lives of those around us.

Perhaps, then, true perception lies not in the eyes but in the heart. It is in the moments of connection, when we allow ourselves to feel rather than judge, that we glimpse the true essence of love. In a world shrouded in darkness, it is this profound connection that illuminates our path, guiding us towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other.

~Mel