Blurred Vision

I have a restricted Driver’s License. Because everything in the distance is a blur, I’m required to wear glasses whenever I’m behind the wheel. I went into the DMV to renew my license recently (which is another Brushstroke I’ll save for Lent) and the woman behind the desk asked if I’d like to try to pass the eye exam without my glasses. Knowing if I passed, my license would no longer be restricted, I agreed enthusiastically. Unfortunately, I was unable to get past the first line of letters before reaching for my glasses. 

I thought little of the moment until I sat talking with friends recently. It dawned on me that, like my experience at the DMV, I often think my vision is better than it is. Even with eyes squinted, I believe my vision is 20/20. It’s not. Whether watching the news, or talking to a friend, I mistakenly think I see things clearly, when, in fact, my vision is blurred. I need glasses to help me see more clearly.

The fact is, we all need glasses. Regardless of where we find ourselves on the political or religious spectrums these days, there’s no denying we’re living through tumultuous times. More than any one issue, our greatest challenge is admitting we all have blurred vision. Too often, we defiantly think we see things as they are when the truth is we can hardly see beyond the first line. No matter how clever we are, how successful, how educated, or how religious, our vision is blurred. 

The question is, will we have the humility to admit our impaired vision and reach for glasses? Will we learn to listen to another point of view? Will we watch a different channel? Will we talk (and not argue) with those holding different views? Will we loosen our grip on our long-held beliefs?

It was embarrassing to have to reach for my glasses when I failed the test at the DMV, but not nearly as embarrassing as admitting my need for other corrective lenses. Somehow, I need to accept my imperfect sight and do what I can to see more clearly. Otherwise, I’ll find myself standing by myself, with only my pride and blurry vision to keep me company.