"Sometimes it is unbearable,
almost too excruciating, impossible,
to draw someone you know very well"
Frederick Franck
The Zen of Seeing
We survey the physical appearance, tone of voice, and body posture when we are first introduced to a stranger. If the conversation is extended, we are pulled into the internal workings of this person. We become curious as to what he or she is like in different situations. We step closer in appreciation of humor or intelligence while noticing a slight defect in speech or inability to maintain eye contact.
We fast forward into a deeper relationship, whether it is professional or social, and when asked to describe this very person, we may not use any of the initial observations. We may overlook height, weight, or lack of natural charisma, preferring to remark on capabilities, accomplishments, and experiences. The longer we engage with someone, we dismiss physical descriptions in exchange for recognition of integrity or honor.
As the relationship unfolds into a deep connection, it will become harder yet to entirely portray this person. When a person grows close to us, the physical fades, emotions engage, and the heart embraces. The more up close and personal we become, the more difficult it is to portray the entire person. We are warmly content, perhaps, by the etching the individual has made in our hearts.
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