I was just reminded that no matter how stable or controllable life may seem, it is not. Such a strong part of me wants to hold on to everything that is good right now and make it absolutely permanent. Tie it all down and force it to never change or move on. The problem with this desire is that it is not realistic. Life does not stand still. Life does not stop moving and changing. As fall approaches, we are all reminded that things must change.
Whenever I find myself perfectly content and blissful, a fear begins to build within me. I start to fear losing the peace that I have found. I start to fear change that may alter my perfectly balanced existence and once again throw me off course. What I have failed to realize is that this fear is, in itself, the death of my peace and contentment. The fear of change utterly ruins our capability to simply live in the moment and enjoy the good we are experiencing while it lasts. Fall is a breathtaking season. The colors warm the horizon, the smells provoke lost memories and the cooler temperatures rejuvenate the energy that was lost in summer's heat. Although all of these things create a very blissful experience, they cannot last forever. Eventually, the leaves will turn brown and fall to the ground. Instead of fearing this change, it should be celebrated. Because winter too brings its own beauty and hope.
Clinging desperately to what I love so much about today makes me lose site of the good that may come tomorrow. Finding contentment in my work, friends, home, hobbies and health is a true gift, but believing that these are the only friends, work, home and hobbies that will ever make me happy is a lie. Although the new season may bring a change in some aspects of my life, it does not have to equal a loss of stability or contentment. Change is inevitable. It should not be feared. While facing the prospect of a great change, fear not the negative it may bring and the good that may be lost, instead, look forward with the understanding that your path is always evolving and bringing you to the exact spot you are meant to be.
Whether we cling to the present with all our might, clawing at it with desperation to avoid losing the joy it has brought us, life plays on. Take full advantage of the joys that the present gives you but don't lose site of the prospective joys that wait around the next bend.
