Our World Is Not A Mirage

I just finished reading Table for Two by Amor Towles and of course there was one more thing said in this awesome book that caused me to reflect. In the conclusion, Evelyn said, “Because, If we don’t stare down the things that make us want to look away, then the world is just a mirage.” This is one of those statements that really makes you think. It’s all about mirror neurons. These mirror neurons in our brain are what enable us to have comprehension of empathy and give compassion. They also make it possible for us to figuratively feel someone’s pain, so that also triggers a looking away response. So, the reality is, there are things that make us want to look away.

“We carry each other’s pain. We learn together, or we do not learn.” ~ Nora Bateson in Small Arcs of Larger Circles

As I reflect on the phrase, “Because, If we don’t stare down the things that make us want to look away, then the world is just a mirage,” I interpret it as emphasizing the importance of facing difficult and uncomfortable truths or challenges head on in order to truly understand and navigate the complexities of the world. So many times we are guilty of looking away and believing someone else will take care of it or the issue doesn’t affect us. Avoiding or ignoring uncomfortable realities, however, only leads to a distorted and superficial perception of reality, like a mirage that disappears upon closer inspection. The mirage is such a powerful metaphor here.

“Before all else we are of the ecosystems. ‘I’ will be different tomorrow. So will you, all of you, us, they.” ~ Nora Bateson in Small Arcs of Larger Circles

We are also reminded that effective leaders must have the courage and willingness to confront difficult issues head-on rather than turning a blind eye, in order make informed decisions and drive positive change. There will always be flaws in the world around us. One thing is for sure; the world is not a mirage. Our personal actions have an impact on everyone else and visa versa. We must not turn a blind eye, but stare down the flaws and look for solutions.

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