Here’s a Shelbish phrase to get us started: “Foundational Lens.”

{Did I start using my own Shelby term in conversation before I realized that it wasn’t something everybody said? Yes, I absolutely did.}

 A “foundational lens” is a pattern of understanding so deeply ingrained in you that flavors every single thing you see. In fact, it’s so ingrained in you that early in life, you may not totally recognize that other people might see things differently. As you mature, you may become somewhat aware of this lens, but like “rose-colored glasses,” you don’t really ever see your world without it. You just get better at remembering that other people may see the world differently.

The sum of all your foundational lenses comprises your complete perspective. So, when you’re listening to someone’s opinion, it’s useful to ask yourself, “What is this individual’s foundational lenses? And how much do I agree with them?”

Personally, I use this idea a lot both in:

• understanding people +

• developing character.

Some Examples

Subcategories

A bias is one example of a foundational lens, often an unconscious one.

Your values are also another example, one that usually requires conscious commitment.

 A Shelbish Glossary-related Example

I have viewed the English language as so malleable that I’ve made up my own words and phrases—which my friends and I have jokingly referred to “Shelbish,” and which I’ve decided to make an official term. I adjust the English language—which is considered by many to be one of hardest languages to learn—in order to suit my life rather than feeling compelled to do it “the right way.”

(Btw, there’s a lot of privilege in that—since I am a well-educated white person whose first language is English, no one looks at me and thinks that I CAN’T speak this language. That gives me a lot of freedom to joke around without repercussions, but that’s a whole ‘nother foundational lens.)

 An Ever Afters-related Example

With his father as a Jack and his own experience in the first war with the Snow Queen, Chase has accepted a certain amount of violence in his life as 100% normal.

Compare that to Rory’s reluctance to hurt others, even her enemies.

 Now think about how Chase adjusts his fighting advice to help Rory. He never fully shakes his foundational lens that violent battles are just an accepted part of life, but he does begin to recognize that another way is possible.

And eventually, he even begins to value it too.