As we finally see the finish line of this long and trying winter it’s a good time to reflect on change. The spring season is one of the most beautiful times of the year and it reminds us of the cycles that take place in nature, cycles not too unlike our own body rhythms. It’s very easy for us to become comfortable and complacent with things that are familiar. The sense of security we get when things are recognizable makes us feel safe. But we all know change is inevitable and in order to prevent changes from upsetting your inner balance, it is necessary to accept it.
Life is constantly changing but as humans we try to exert as much control as possible and sometimes even manage to fool ourselves into thinking we have any control at all. When you consider that we are infinitesimally small and spinning on a giant rock circling the sun you start to get an idea about how little control we actually have. Yet the need for security and familiarity will cause us to believe that we can determine every outcome.
The fact is, life changes whether we like it or not. Children grow up, friends move away and we leave jobs, apartments and cities to pursue other dreams and goals. Change is not always easy to accept, especially when you didn’t plan for it. When your boss tells you your position is being relocated overseas or a loved one says they don’t feel the same anymore the shock can be intense. What we thought was a certainty is suddenly turned upside down and this can be an uncertain and scary feeling. What happens next? Will I make it? How can I live without that person? Change is not always easy.
The worst thing you can do is resist and fight change. Like standing in the ocean and pushing back the tides, you’ll only end up tired and defeated. You can’t change the currents or the direction the wind is blowing. All you can do is adjust your sails and get back on track. Accepting change is very hard and takes a lifetime to master. But, once you begin to let go of control and understand that change is a necessary part of life the more relaxed and at peace you will be.