Perspective Is a Ritual: How We Learn to See From Other Angles
Download MP3Freemasonry teaches us to square our actions—but what lens are we using to observe them? In this episode, we explore how shifting between first, second, and third person perspectives reveals more than just situational awareness—it unlocks the rituals of self-observation, empathy, and clarity.
Through everyday examples and symbolic reflection, we consider how perspective-taking becomes a sacred act, not only of seeing clearly, but of knowing where we’re standing when we look.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Different default perspectives create different blind spots
- Shifting to second or third person allows for more compassionate and accurate internal dialogue
- Perspective-taking is a skill and a ritual, not just a mindset
💬 Featured Quotes
“Some people default to third person—they’re always watching themselves from 30,000 feet.” [00:01:41]
“That second person voice? It’s you talking to you.” [00:02:02]
“We can switch between these, like camera angles in a video game.” [00:01:15]
“How we see is often more important than what we see.” [00:03:12]
🔗 Explore Related Episodes
- “The Hoodwink Within: Uncovering the Patterns We Can’t See”
→ Explores the unconscious ways our perception is shaped and what it takes to remove the symbolic blindfold. - “Dialogue with the Disowned: The Second Person as Masonic Practice”
→ Investigates the role of second-person writing as a ritual for emotional clarity and compassion. - “The Trowel and the Limits of Patience”
→ Focuses on care and restraint as tools for working with difficult perspectives in others—and in ourselves.
Creators and Guests
Host
Brian Mattocks
Host and Founder of A Mason's Work - a podcast designed to help you use symbolism to grow. He's been working in the craft for over a decade and served as WM, trustee, and sat in every appointed chair in a lodge - at least once :D
