A paradigm shift is an abrupt change in one’s point of view. All of a sudden, we interpret an event differently than moments earlier. Most of us have experienced altered perceptions at one time or another. I recall one in particular. I was making small talk with a colleague. After having occupied neighboring offices for many years and working on related projects, Robin and I had become friends. We often shared our joys and frustrations. A pretty brunette with soft brown eyes and an infectious smile, Robin was the kind of person who leaves chocolates on your desk when your day has gone south, and if you aren’t feeling well, she’ll try her best to cheer you up.

While Cindy, our coworker, was recovering from a foot operation at home, I asked Robin if she had heard anything about Cindy’s recuperation. “How’s she doing?” I wondered.

Robin looked at me wide-eyed. “Didn’t I tell you? She’s got big sores on her butt.”

I was taken back a notch. I had been unaware that the two of them were on such intimate terms.

“No, I haven’t heard,” I admitted.

Robin went on, “I got some stuff for her last night and put it on her butt. I hope it helps.”

An image wanted to unfold before my eyes, but I quickly squashed it by changing my vantage point. “Well, she’s been sitting a lot. Maybe that’s why she developed sores.”

“I don’t think so. She rarely sits. She usually lies down because of her arthritis,” Robin added.

Now I was completely flabbergasted. I hadn’t kept up with the details of Cindy’s medical condition, but neither had I ever noticed signs of arthritis in my interactions with her. And I certainly had never seen her lie down at work. “She has arthritis?” I wondered.

Without missing a beat, Robin added, “I took her to Petco last night and had her nails trimmed. They were getting really long.”

My mental wheels went into overdrive for several seconds. Then I broke out laughing.”Robin, I was talking about Cindy. You were talking about your dog, Cinder, weren’t you?”

Have you ever experienced a paradigm shift?