Monday, June 23, 2008

Change


"Any change, even a change for the better, is always accompanied by drawbacks and discomforts." Arnold Bennett

A good friend recently shared with me her need for change in her life, to which I replied "me, too." She and I are so much alike. Similar ages and stages, similar unmet needs, similar ponderings.

I'm at a point in life where I know I need to make some changes, but am unsure of the direction. Neither journaling, blogging, praying, photographing or even drinking too much wine have offered enough insight to date. There is a fear involved when one begins to think of change in their lives, which is why I chose the quote that I did today. Whatever I choose to do to bring one or more positive changes in my life will indeed cause drawbacks and discomforts in some capacity. It sounds odd, but this quote struck home this morning. The knowing ahead that upsets will occur grants me some sort of ease. I'm better prepared, maybe. It's the flow of life.

It think change is rather like this tree you see above. It has changed over time, as evidenced by it's crooked trunk and random branches. The tree is not perfect but I was drawn to its stark, uneven beauty nicely silhouetted in a morning mist. This tree teaches me that one can change, endure the discomforts and still come out beautiful and happy in the end.

At least, that's what I see.

7 comments:

Unknown said...

I must admit- I am afraid of change as well- and yet I know it is necessary. I am not a risk taker- I would rather accept the 'known' than take a chance on the 'unknown'. I like the following quote as well:

Too many people are thinking of security instead of opportunity. They seem more afraid of life than death.
James F. Byrnes (1879 - 1972)

Lisa at Greenbow said...

Great quotes Debi and Daniel. Change is a scary thing. Work through ones fears and you will be much happier.

Threadspider said...

Oddly, I have found comfort in this quote :-
"Nothing is so certain as that the future is uncertain."
It gives a great sense of freedom and a readiness to accept that change can be a good and beneficial thing.

Anonymous said...

God rewards the risk takers. ;0)

Change is frightening but can be exhilarating once that first step is taken. The greatest journeys begin with a single step. Boy, I'm full of cliches tonight aren't I? Even so, I find a lot of truth and inspiration in them, especially the immortal words of the Stingman. God does indeed reward the risk takers.

P.S. love the playlist. What are you doing is my most favourite cover by Sting and Chris. It's like liquid velvet that you just want to luxuriate in.

Love ya!

wcgillian said...

A friend of mine sent me a little book called, "The Dash." If you can find a copy, read it. If you already have then you know what I am talking about when I say it really is important to follow through with your desire for change. Of course I write this to you at almost 2a.m. on a bench in the Anchorage airport. God I hate my life sometimes, although I just read the book on the plane. Maybe its not too late.

RJ

Anonymous said...

I've been in that exact place. In fact, since my mother's death, I'm on a whole new path of change. I let it change through osmosis without fighting it, without worrying where it will take me. I follow and it leads -- I'm enjoying the journey despite the occasional pocket of grief. I know you will begin to enjoy your journey as well. Bravo for putting one foot ahead of the other Debi.

Diane

The Giraffe Head Tree said...

Thank you all once again for adding quotes of your own in addition to your thoughtful words. Changes are tough, but necessary. And, it's time to make some so hold on...here we go.

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