The Forest For The Trees

If you've never heard this saying, allow me to elaborate... When someone says "he can't see the forest for the trees" it means the person is missing the point. They can't or won't see the bigger picture, the real meaning or purpose of the situation, because they are too focused on the smaller details.

I don't want to name names here but I happen to be very close to someone that is blinded by his own guilt, his own haunting memories and his own personal fears. For the sake of this post, I am going to call this person the 'Superhero'. The Superhero is living through a literal nightmare because he see's himself in someone else; let's call that person the 'Villain'. Sometimes the Villain hurts himself, sometimes he hurts others but most of the time, he hurts those who love him. The Superhero comes from a past of making mistakes, things he would have done differently had he been given the chance. In this case, the Superhero can relate to the Villain seeing as the Villain is following a similar path. Where they are different is in their ability to see the forest for the trees. The Villain only focuses on what he needs or wants. Gives no thought to others or their feelings. Everything that happens in the Villain's life happens TO him not BECAUSE of him. The Superhero has learned the tough lessons, loving and losing, winning and failing; he is accountable and remorseful. In a way, the Superhero also suffers from not seeing the bigger picture because he allows the Villain to continue to use him; dragging him down a dark hole of depression and negativity. The Superhero tries to get in front of the Villain, to lead him and encourage him. To change him. The Superhero refuses to give up on the Villain because he knows what it is like to have no one and struggle to pick himself up from nothing.

I can see both sides of the story. With enough information, I can sympathize with these characters. In fact, I happen to love them both. My love is not conditional but my call to action is. I choose, very carefully, where my energy goes. I am selfish in that way. I do this for my sanity, my marriage and my overall health. I don't feel my advice is warranted and I doubt I could get through to my Superhero or my Villain, but I think of them often. I keep them in my heart and I pray that they each gain strength to see what's right, courage to face the consequences of their actions and above all, I hope that they find peace within themselves. If life is the Forest and each Tree represents someone who loves you; don't cast aside everyone else for the shade that comes from a singular Tree.