"To bring the most out of any design you must try to view it from the other person's perspective."

Chrisanne Olsen

Believe in Your Journey

My friend Chrisanne Olsen owns the world's best furniture store.  It is "C.G. Sparks, furniture with soul."  I have come across some of my greatest discoveries within this remarkable place.  Yes. Those discoveries include beautiful antique, handmade, hardwood furniture from the other side of Earth. But, I've found more than that.  I have found partners with which to observe design, life and relationships.

When I stopped in to refresh my imagination this week I found myself, as usual, in a conversation with Chrisanne about a particularly striking piece my daughter has had her eye on for quite some time.  But, as the conversation progressed it was clear that the exchange wasn't really about that at all.  It was really about the design of life and our relationship with others and the things around us. 

"The maker of that piece was a gentleman from France.  He studied art and developed a remarkable eye.  Then he went to India and built a furniture manufacturing business.  He turned out beautiful pieces by combining his talent with the local materials and craftsmanship.  Unfortunately the other domestic furniture makers were jealous of his work and they got him deported.  So, I can't get the piece your daughter likes anymore."  She said.

"What a shame!" I thought to myself.

Here is a man who embraced and lived in another culture because he could feel and see its beauty. He brought his own unique and exceptional talents to combine them with those of another place and people so he could create a new, life enhancing design aesthetic for our world.  Now it's no longer available.

"To bring the most out of any design you must try to view it from the other person's perspective." Chrisanne once said to me.

As I walked with her down the aisles of unique, art driven furniture I began to see past the furniture to the creators behind it.  Doing so has added another dimension to my view.  It has allowed me to find additional meaning and emotion in everything around me.

I'm changing from a single-viewer-life to that of a designer.  I want to combine my own artistic ability with that of those around me. If I can view the world through the eyes of others and combine it with my personal character and talent then I'll deepen my experience.  I'll become more than I otherwise would.

You can live this same designer life by following the advice of Chrisanne as well.  Constantly look at your surroundings, our world and your own backyard.  Be a believer in your journey.  Know that your character and talent is combined with others to add beauty, variety and distinction to our world.  We're all better because you are here!