I'm surprised at the level of change occurring in my midst. I didn't expect so many changes at this stage of life. I suppose that some of this unexpected change is due to the ease of share via the Internet. In times past, I may not have had such easy access to people's lives and changes.
With these changes in mind, how will I react--what will I do?
Rather than quickly act, I want to stand back more and observe the changes around me. I've found that these changes require observation and reflection as many of these changes are unexpected and new, they are not changes I prepared for or necessarily know how to deal with.
As far as the many changes occurring in people's lives, I'm not sure how to react in every instance. People I know and love are experiencing illnesses, expanding families, significant celebrations, moves, financial windfalls/challenges, and more. There's a lot of life happening all around me, and that life is not necessarily following expected patterns or traditional patterns.
What can I do in the midst of all this change?
Illnesses
People I love are facing a fair number of illnesses. Most of these illnesses are part of the aging process. As I think about this, I can offer the following responses:
- be helpful when I can
- support healthy living when possible
- listen
No one wants to face illness, but illness is a part of life. Fortunately we live at a time when there are many bright, caring medical professionals who can offer many paths to better health in light of illness.
Personal struggles
People inevitably face personal struggles with regard to relationships, jobs, family, and more. It's difficult to face a personal struggle, and when those you love face these struggles, it's good to be a good listener and it's also good to help if you have what the person needs. Often, unfortunately, when it comes to personal struggle, you may not have the answer or what a person needs, and in situations like this you may offer prayer, solidarity, a bit of fun, and love.
Moves
Some people I know and love are making moves to new homes and new places. These moves take time and spell change. We can celebrate the moves of our loved ones with notes, gifts, conversation, and celebration.
Expanding families
As life goes on many families expand by way of marriages, new relationships, and babies. As families expand, those families change too. We can join our loved ones in celebrating family expansion with gifts, parties, and the realization and acceptance that life will change.
As life changes, we need to be sensitive to others and ourselves as change is not always easy. It's good to celebrate the best that change brings and be sensitive to the struggle that change can also bring. Onward.
