Gaining Perspective: Lessons from Livestock and the Power of Height
Early in the morning or late afternoon, there’s a delightful event that often seen in the paddocks. Young sheep and cattle become a little crazy with energy. They run, leap, and kick their heels in the air, chasing each other as though as they make their way around the field. You’ll notice a favorite gathering spot—any rise or small hill in the paddock. It’s a coveted space, sometimes too small to fit more than one at a time.
This hill is the place for playful dominance. One animal runs to the top, only to be pushed off by another. They compete, not out of malice, but for the sheer thrill of being king of the mountain.
It’s a reminder of something deeply human: the way our perspective shifts when we create elevation.
The Magic of Height and Perspective
There’s a saying that our perspective on life changes when we gain physical elevation. Think about the sensation of taking a flight and looking down at the world below. From up in the air, cities shrink, homes become dots, and the troubles that once loomed large feel suddenly small and distant. It’s an almost liberating experience.
This isn’t just about altitude; it’s about perspective. Being high—whether on a hill, a mountaintop, or in an airplane—offers a sense of detachment. The problems that once seemed so overwhelming begin to lose their grip, revealing themselves as manageable in the grander scheme of things.
A Practical Lesson
What can we learn from this? When life feels heavy, when problems feel insurmountable, try to gain some literal or figurative height.
- Step away from proximity. If a situation feels too close for comfort, physically distancing yourself can work wonders. Take a walk, leave the environment, or visit a place where you can look at it all from a distance.
- Seek elevation. Whether it’s climbing a hill, visiting a tall building, or even just imagining your life from a bird’s-eye view, changing the angle can help you regain clarity.
- Remember the disengagement. Like livestock on their hill, standing high gives us a momentary break from the struggles of the ground. Problems don’t vanish, but they don’t feel as overwhelming.
Maybe you can picture yourself as one of those frisky animals scrambling for the top of the hill. Let the joy of perspective lighten your spirit, if only for a moment. From up there, the world looks smaller, the problems more manageable, and the possibilities endless.
