A Few Words about Change

After years of using an IMAC, I have changed to a PC.  I resisted the change but was encouraged by my wife.  I was used to the Apple and didn’t want to learn a new system.  Yet, again, with my wife’s help, I am learning how to use the new computer.  I’m getting better at it.  Change may be inevitable and good for us but it is a threat to our stability.

The Biblical God is always trying to change people. Through various messengers, God is constantly calling on people to repent.  Now, the word “repent” means to turn around and be radically changed.  Live your life in a different way.  Every prophet in the Bible harps on the theme of repentance and change.  By the way, that’s why most prophets are killed.

 Here is a truth.  Some people violently resist the change others think is desperately essential. And, let’s be honest, there are times when we desire a change.  There are times when we are not looking to change and yet change comes anyway.  There are times when we purposefully choose to change.  Finally, there are times when we are just plain not sure we should change.  When is change appropriate and when ought we resist change?

I say, any change which gives life and enlivens the soul is a good change.  This change may not make you happy on all fronts but it gives your life integrity.  It keeps you sane.  And that is the key to life, staying sane. The purpose of commandments in the Bible is to keep us sane, help us resist chaos and teach us what it means to be a human being.

Change is part of life.  My advice??? Absorb and enjoy the nice changes. I love the change to spring and summer.  Expect that sometimes change will not work out well. Craziness is, after all, a part of life.  I don’t like it but there it is.  People say, “this too shall pass.”  Yes, but sometimes it passes like a kidney stone.  Do what you can do to transform the unpleasant or unexpected changes into something that gives life. I know, easier said than done.

Finally, remember, and this is key, change is most difficult when you are moving, starting a new part of your life, a new job or working on a new project.  All beginnings are hard.  So, be easy on yourself.  Don't make your life decisions on the basis of fear.  Do the best you can, enjoy your friends, be encouraged and hugged by your pets, love your lovers, get a good night’s sleep.  All the rest is commentary.  And stay sane out there!