Furuya Sensei posted this to his Daily Message on February 11, 2002.
In some cases, we can say that if we see the big picture then the small details will take care of themselves. At the same time, a huge skyscraper can be toppled down because of a small hairline fracture in one essential support beam. Wisdom means to know how to see what we are seeing and to see it correctly and in the right proportion. In some things, we must look at the tiniest details and some other things it is better just to keep focused on the bigger picture.
In dealing with fellow human beings, it is best to know when to see that small character flaws which may result in big trouble later on. However, in some cases, its better to ignore the minor flaws and concentrate on the person as a whole. This takes practice but is essential to an instructor of Aikido when teaching their students.
When a student is making a mistake in the technique, it is sometimes best to correct it immediately so that the student knows that it is incorrect. Sometimes, it is better simply to wait and observe to see if the student will eventually correct it themselves. In everything, we must use wisdom and this means that everything has its own particular way of being looking at. Each human being must be understood in their own unique and particular way.
To view humans is something like looking at a fine samurai sword. We must look very closely to detect any flaws or imperfections in the forging. Yet to appreciate its great beauty, we must see it at a distance. Getting to know the sword means to understand its usefulness and strength by appreciating its balance and weight. And finally, no matter how bad the condition of the blade may be with rust and scratches, we should be able to see its true quality underneath all of the damage and know that, once it is polished, how beautiful and worthy it will finally turn out to be.