Perception as Reality?

People have different talents, gifts, capacities, backgrounds, situations, circumstances and belief sets. Even people who are ostensibly as similar as peas in a pod. Yet, the pulchritude of human nature lies in the common thread of unity that runs across these diverse characteristics that make up each of us - as we each inextricably have a common destination, no matter how different our approach or route to that destination is. Even for those of us who believe that we are invincible, instances like (more recently) the Tsunami in Japan indicate that the force of Nature is indeed excruciating, unbeatable and unparalleled.
We are each a mere speck in the larger vicissitudes of this nonpareil force. In such a scenario, it puzzles - and sometimes saddens - me to realize that our intents are more often than not, misperceived and our weaknesses, paid more attention to than our strengths. And not concernedly so but rather maliciously so. Just like an inconspicuous black spot on the surface of a huge white screen. This perception becomes reality. This reality is not merely social in its effects; it is also personal. It could have a devastating personal impact that could bind its victim to the fetters of the disembodied fragments of a poor self-concept - and away from the welcoming gardens of a reality that could have been.
Notwithstanding the credence that is associated with many a perception, it's in our power to embrace the reality that we would like to see. The sweetest form of vindication lies in finding the strength in us to nurture the gifts we have and make the world our oyster!