No matter how hard you try, you cannot see the other side of the mountain from where you stand. In some ways, you are truly the center of the universe. When it comes to what you can see, no matter which direction you look, you are at the center. Everything stretches out from where you are.
The problem with this perspective [pun intended], is that it is impossible to see yourself clearly. Self assessment, understanding and growth is virtually impossible without the aid external reference. Just as a mirror affords us perspective, while combing our hair, shaving or putting on make-up, the external reference of trusted advisers, friends and family, allow us see those portions of our character that need a bit of grooming.
Personal interaction with others provide valuable feedback. The wider the range of people, the better our perspective. Engagement with only those with whom we agree, will result in narrow myopic views that lead inevitably to short-sighted mindset and decisions. The best perspective is achieved through understanding others that hold distinctly differing views.
Growing up in rural North Carolina, people would describe a mountain from their perspective. Some observed a grassy glen, while others saw a rocky impassable gulch. Together the full character of the mountain became clear.
Relationship is that place where we can find the extremes of pain and joy. With greater engagement come greater intensity of each. We have been created to be in community and to grow from the experience of seeing things bigger than us.