Life is a strange journey. While we remember and recognize the significant events of change that happen, such as the birth of our children, or the loss of loved ones, we often fail to notice that change is always happening. Change is a part of our lives, our constant companion. How we deal with and adapt to change can make such a difference to our perspective and happiness.
While there are aspects of our life that we wish to hold on to, we must also accept when that is not possible. This is not an easy thing, especially in moments of tragedy or disaster. Wishing for what has passed and cannot be regained and does not allow us to move forward.
We must acknowledge that things must and always will change. A life held in stasis does not expand the mind and becomes resistant to change. To paraphrase Heraclitus, “The only constant in life is change”. If we are not open to the variances in our situation, we can become stale and unhappy.
It is important to remember that change is not always negative. Many positive things change in our lives; when we meet new friends, promotion or change of jobs, or watching our children grow and mature. Each stage of life has its rewards and challenges. Instead of hiding from them, we must try to embrace them and to learn and grow within each new day.
Like the turning of the seasons, change passes by us almost imperceptibly yet over time things have moved immeasurably. “Isn’t it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different…” – C.S. Lewis.
