We go from one stable (or instable) platform to another in life, like the leaping from-and-onto lily pads, venturing through the ponds of life. This is the journey of our lives. And from one position of personal significance to another there is a separation; these are periods of transition. These periods of transition are usually associated with feelings of frustration or annoyance as we feel a little lost and out of our comfort zones.
Some transition periods last years as we sit in a way-station--these times can seem hellish at the time, and even embarrassing when looking back. Despite the possible languishing, there is another way to endure it.
Another way of looking at these periods, as the normal flow of life stops or pauses, is the welcome sense of relief (even if it’s immediately unwelcome) the temporary period brings. Breathing space appears. As the dense growth of the forest makes way for a clearing ahead, we get a chance to survey the ground before us, and even gaze back at the tall timber behind us.
We’re approaching another position of significance and though it tarries it will surely come. Something new or different is approaching, or we’re approaching it. “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” –Isaiah 43:18-19a (NIV). The fact is, in these situations, we do perceive it--but it doesn’t always come quickly enough for us.
But, should we not also dwell positively in the present and on the faint coming vision of the future, and not on the negative aspects of the past?
We’re gaining or losing or both. We never stand still in life. We fear losing to the loss of gain--in gaining, what do we lose? In everything gained, there is loss. Change is risk. Risk is inherently scary for many of us. When we stand to gain, equally we stand to lose. It’s harrowing and daunting. And the more we reflect the more dangerous this future ground can seem.
We’re consolidating. We’re counting our wins and losses, patting ourselves on the back and licking our wounds.
Transition is the swinging of the pendulum. As the pendulum swings down and the transition of change commences it inevitably brings the ‘new thing’ with it. It comes whether we like it or not, yet it’s our choice to like it or not.
It is sheer madness to not like the things coming to us merely because they’re not attractive; transition is the opportunity to prepare mentally, emotionally and spiritually for the new thing--that thing that tarries but does not delay, not for even one moment.
The key message? Get refreshed while you can! Operations commence Monday!
Copyright © 2009, S. J. Wickham. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
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