A Time of Transformation
By Resna Marie Brunson MSC, LPCMH
My favorite time of the year is here. In previous articles, I’ve mentioned autumn/fall as the season I enjoy most. The sights and sounds of nature are magnified during this transitional period. The wind blowing, leaves changing, geese migrating, squirrels scurrying, and shorter days remind us change is on the horizon. Besides the physical changes, Fall is also known as the season of gathering. We gather not only for today but for the lean months ahead. I have a dear friend who cans fruit during this time of year. On any day you can go to her home and enjoy delicious preserved fruits and jams. This old yet wise practice is not as common today.
Several years ago I heard a sermon titled “preparing for a storm.” The key point in this message was to gather what we will need for lean years ahead. Most of us will look at the weather forecast as we are preparing for the day. We may need to adjust not only our attire, but itinerary depending on weather conditions. Of course a weather prediction is not an absolute. While teaching, I remember the disappointment of looking forward to a snow storm only to wake up the next morning to a clear day. How can I live in the moment and prepare for the inevitable storms of life? How can I “gather” without being consumed with tomorrow and miss the blessings of today. Hint…accept we are not in control.
“Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow…Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” James 14:4-5 (New International Version, 2015). This Bible verse is a reminder of our vulnerability and lack of control. Yes, it is wise to plan but what happens when they are subverted? Are you feeling peace and contentment or anxiety and despair? Are you willing to move forward despite the forced change in direction or are you feeling stuck and hopeless. There are some things we know to be certain. I shared in a previous post how I enjoy seeing the sunrise. Despite clouds or fog, we can say with certainty the sun has risen. We can still enjoy the presence of daylight but if we were planning an outside photo shoot we may need to shift direction. Once we embrace our inability to control, we are able to become more comfortable with uncomfortable change.
Earlier, I referenced a book titled “Who Moved My Cheese” by Dr. Spencer Johnson (Johnson, 2018). Mice have to decide to use their sense of smell to find cheese that is now in an unfamiliar place. Some decide to continue in the same direction only to be disappointed when they realize they need to shift direction. The rough terrains in life sometimes force us to seek resources in places that are discomforting. Because this can feel awkward we sometimes retreat.
Transition is rarely easy. Sometimes it seems better for things to remain the same-even if it is not in our best interest. Perhaps having someone to help with enjoying moments while prepping for inevitable life changes may be helpful.
Ready to take the next step?
Johnson, S. (2018). Who moved my cheese an a-mazing way to deal with change in your work and in your life. G.P. Putnam’s Sons.
Niv zondervan study bible: New international version. (2015). . Zondervan.
