“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”—Mahatma Gandhi
I’ve shared before that my family was recently presented with the possibility for some dramatic changes in our lives. Change can be unsettling. Change can also be welcomed. Change can be expected, but then not come. In our case, this change does not appear to be happening.
Change can be wanted or unwanted. There are things in life that will frustrate us and we would love to change. I have a list of things I would like to change. On the other hand, there are things I really like about where I am. So, I accept where I am. I have come to the conclusion that the only thing that is going to change is me.
When we are in circumstances that we want to change, but they don’t change, it can be frustrating. We want things to change, but they are not about to. Maybe, it is for the best. Probably, it is for the best. Yes, it is for the best. At the very least, it is what it is.
It is easy to list the things that we don’t like about our circumstances. It is more difficult to take inventory of what we most appreciate—a gratitude inventory. When we do, however, we realize just how great an opportunity we have. The things we don’t like, toxic or just minor discomforts, aren’t going away. Our negativity must. Circumstances may remain the same, but we don’t have to.
So, when change doesn’t come, and we get to stay where we are. Embrace the opportunity. Don’t expect things to change. Be the change. Change your attitude. Remember: your attitude shapes your attitude.
“Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me.”—Carol Burnett