“We perceive and see only what our minds are ready to grasp.” - Gage

To take it deeper and whirl it is some more words, we perceive and see only what our minds are ready to grasp, speaks to the intimate relationship between perception and cognition. It underscores the principle that our understanding (inner-standing) of the world around us is not solely dependent on the sensory input we receive, but rather on how our minds process and interpret this input. This concept is foundational in acknowledging the limits of perception and the power of preconceived notions, biases, and learned experiences.

In teaching this principle, it's vital to explore the idea that human beings are not passive recipients of sensory information. Instead, we actively construct our reality based on both what we see and how we interpret it. This interpretation is heavily influenced by our prior knowledge, beliefs, and emotional state, which act as filters for our perception.

To illustrate this, consider optical illusions. They demonstrate how different people can interpret the same visual stimulus in varied ways, depending on how their minds are conditioned to perceive it. Another example can be seen in how experts in a field notice details and patterns that novices do not. An art critic, for example, sees nuances in a painting that escape an untrained eye, just as a musician hears subtleties in a piece of music that others might miss.

This teaching can lead to a broader discussion about the importance of cultivating an open mind and awareness of our cognitive biases. It suggests that expanding our knowledge and challenging our preconceived notions can not only change the way we perceive the world but also enhance our understanding and appreciation of it.

Namaste,

Gage