Some Reflections on Transformations

Changes in our lives can be scary but they’re often necessary. Making changes for ourselves is not a selfish act. Only when we’re good to ourselves can we be good for others. Other than constant changes we encounter in life, sometimes we know we need to move in a whole new direction. We feel that we’re ready for renewal, ready to explore and discover, and finally ready to peruse our dreams.
We can’t run our lives by luck and merely settle for whatever comes our way. We can’t just react to events and wait for something from the outside to happen. It is up to us to make choices and create the changes we seek.
We all know that our thoughts create our reality. But thoughts alone don’t help us much. We need to truly look within to assess where we’re standing and where we want to be. Reflect deeply. Set goals and approach them one at a time. We also have to trust our intuition. The things that need our attention have been most likely nagging us for a while. Why put them on hold any longer?
Believe that you can transform. Develop a positive attitude. Do your affirmations and visualize where you want to be. Be around motivated, successful and happy people to stay motivated. Be patient as changes don’t happen overnight. Try to stay focused and interested throughout the process. Don’t let failures or challenges keep you from trying. If you fail at first, try again!
It might not be easy, perfect, or complete, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t continue working on it. Once you start to see how the transformation has moved you in a better direction, you know that the wait and the hard work were worth it.
Our sages said, “You are not required to complete the task, yet you are not free to withdraw from it.” Whether we work on our personal changes or make major changes on a global scale it all starts from the desire within. You must be the change you want to see in the world.
Naomi Young is an educator in Jewish studies. She is also a local writer and artist. On September 21 through 23, she will participate in the chalk festival on Main Street.
You may reach her at naomiyoung7@yahoo.com or see her website www.naomiyoung.com