Читать книгу Living Long, Living Passionately - Karen Casey - Страница 15

When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.

—Viktor E. Frankl

Change is an interesting opportunity. Perhaps you haven't thought about it in that way. Resisting change is generally the more common response. But let's take the next few minutes and list in our journals a few of the changes we have experienced in the last decade.

Are there any similarities in the kinds of changes?

Which one of the above changes was easiest to undergo? Can you guess why?

Which one has “paid off” the most?

What I am trying to get across is that change is good. Change is intentional. It never comes our way unless we are prepared for it. We may not realize we are ready for the change, but no change visits us that we have not been readied for. Absolutely none. How can I be so sure? Remember the Sacred Contracts that we discussed in two earlier essays? Whatever crosses your path has been invited. Whoever is present is a chosen guest, one with a lesson for you. Wherever you are is the perfect location. There are no coincidences. None!

Now revisit the “dreaded” changes you were forced to make at an earlier time in your life. If it helps to close your eyes, do so. What were you thinking in the midst of the change? Can you remember what it felt like to make the necessary adjustment? It was a door opener. Change always is. Let's savor the new ideas we were introduced to, and the new people too. Share here your overriding feeling after the adjustment was made.

What's the best holdover from that originally unexpected and dreaded change? How has it benefitted your life?

Have you been able to transfer some of the benefit to the lives of others? Hopefully you can see how that has happened. Nothing ever happens in our experience that doesn't have a broader use. Trace that use now and be pleased you were the conduit for change in others.

Perhaps you are still resisting change rather than celebrating the idea that you are ready for new growth, or change would not have come knocking. The aging process introduces all of us to many changes. I certainly see many in my life. Appearance, flexibility, eyesight, and wrinkles, to name just a few. But there's also peace of mind. Acceptance of what I can't change. And greater joy over the small things in life. It's actually time to celebrate who we were, who we are, and celebrate the possibilities for the future. Share here what you are currently celebrating.