113. "Everything we hear is an opinion not a fact, and everything we see is a perspective not the truth."-Anonymous

In a world where everything we hear is an opinion and everything we see is a perspective, I recently stumbled upon a profound philosophical notion that had me questioning the very fabric of our reality. The world, as we know it, is a collection of perceptions—either our own or those of others.

Growing up, I often heard stories about slums, painting vivid images in my mind that were far from flattering. It wasn't until a friend took me through one that I realized my perceptions were merely stories crafted by someone else's lens. Placing my phone in a 'safer' spot was a testament to the biases I carried. He had a good laugh and made a knowing statement.

The real eye-opener came during a cleanup initiative in Nairobi's largest slum, Kibera. What began as a volunteer effort soon transformed into a regular rendezvous. I made friends. The community's vibrant spirit and resilience shattered the stereotypes I once held. There were certain aspects that made me wonder a lot with regards to the living standards but since those were aspect beyond my control I decided to soak in the beautiful aspect of it. The people. I had witnessed a different narrative—one that didn't focus on lack but celebrated the strength and richness of human connections.

Reflecting on these experiences, I'm compelled to ask: How many opportunities do we miss because someone else colored our perception with their brush of bias? How many things do we label as 'useless' because someone showcased a facet they deemed unworthy?

Perspectives and perceptions wield incredible power in shaping our interactions with the world. They can either distort our views or provide authentic experiences. My journey through Kibera taught me that preconceived notions can be a disservice to the richness that lies beneath the surface.

It's crucial that we become conscious storytellers, sharing narratives that encourage understanding and empathy rather than perpetuating stereotypes. I choose to challenge my selves to see beyond the surface, to appreciate the diverse stories that make up the human experience and being open to have these experiences. Our perceptions have the power to either divide or unite us; we have the freedom to choose to bridge gaps and build connections.