The quote “Admiration involves a glorious obliquity of vision” suggests that when we admire something or someone, our perspective is often slightly skewed or indirect. This “obliquity” implies that admiration does not come from seeing things head-on or in a straightforward manner, but rather from appreciating the nuances, complexities, and perhaps even flaws that contribute to greatness.
In simpler terms, admiration might mean recognizing the beauty in imperfection or understanding that what makes someone admirable isn’t just their successes but also their struggles and unique qualities. This way of viewing the world can be seen as “glorious” because it allows for a richer, more layered experience of life—one that celebrates depth over superficial judgment.
In today’s world, this concept can be particularly relevant in several ways. For instance:
1. **Social Media and Public Figures**: We often see curated versions of people’s lives online where only success is showcased. When we admire public figures based solely on these images without acknowledging their challenges or failures (the oblique aspects), we miss out on a fuller understanding of what they represent.
2. **Personal Development**: In our own lives, embracing an oblique vision means recognizing our own imperfections and learning to appreciate them as part of our journey toward growth. Instead of striving for an idealized version of success, we can find value in our unique paths—including setbacks—which ultimately shape who we become.
3. **Interpersonal Relationships**: When admiring friends or family members, it’s essential to look beyond surface traits—like achievements—and consider how their experiences have shaped them (their struggles with resilience are just as crucial). This approach fosters deeper connections grounded in empathy and understanding.
4. **Cultural Appreciation**: Admiration for art forms or cultural practices requires us to acknowledge not only the end product but also the context—the history and struggles behind those expressions—which enriches our appreciation substantially.
Overall, embracing this idea encourages us to cultivate a mindset where admiration is holistic rather than superficial; it helps us build more authentic relationships with ourselves and others while promoting personal growth through acceptance of life’s complexities.
