Perception

Perception says, "The world is flat."
But if one takes a higher view
Perception isn't always that
Which tells us what is really true .

Face value is so commonplace
We seldom take a second look.
We think that we have found our place
When it is something we mistook.

How precious is the friend who tells
The truth of what they see in us,
And breaks the chain of silly spells
If we allow them to discuss

In honesty the things they find
When looking at the way we are,
And tells us when we've lost our mind,
Or if it is a bit ajar.

Some things are difficult to hear,
But may be just the things we need.
And what has been so very dear
Are those who've helped me to succeed.

The friends who never hold things back,
But tell me when I am a fool,
And fill in where my senses lack
Before I go and break some rule.

So here's to friends who challenge me
To look at things in different light,
From higher views where I can see
The way to make things turn out right.

John H. Bidwell