Phenomenology-Do You See What I See

Earlier today I read a blog the discussed Phenomenology-- which relates to phenomena (things and events) and the concept of consciousness being an individual experience. I have been pondering this idea and writing about the need to be mindful that individual experiences vary. The study of phenomenology reinforces this idea by shedding additional light on how our personal perceptions, judgments and emotions influence our response to things and events. Phenomenology reminds us that no two individuals who witness an event will experience the event in the exact some manner. This helps to explain why there can be miscommunication between individuals who believe they share the same experience; but, they are interpreting the same experience, comment or event very differently. Personal interpretation of phenomena (things or events etc) is one of the reasons witnesses to the same event recall different things. It is reason why, with every situation, there can genuinely be: "my story", "your story" and "the story" as it relates to all the people and emotions involved in the retelling of the story. Although the event or phenomena remains the same, the individual interpretation of the experience will be slightly or dramatically different for each person depending on a multitude of factors. When this occurs, an unhealthy ego would have us believe that our interpretation of events is correct and accurate and that anyone who does not share our point of view is somehow flawed, inferior or otherwise impaired. However, when we become aware and conscious that communication between parties should take into account the personal paradigm of each member of the audience, then we are more likely to listen for context, check for understanding and ask for clarification. This is a sign of an ego that is acting as a servant and not the master of our intellect. This is a sign that an individual is open to new information and willing to consider changing positions; or, at least, agreeing to further investigation, when presented with evidence that a current belief may be inaccurate. This is a sign that a person is growing in maturity and authenticity; and, this is a sign that a person values peace over the need to be proven right~Becky Bro