Change Is Good

Change is an uncomfortable thing for many, but it is like diving into a strange lake. I have a friend, last time I checked, with whom I went driving in the country on a very  hot summer day. The AC was off and a scorching breeze was flowing in the windows. Suddenly she pulled off to the side of the road, got out, partly disrobed and dived into the lake adjacent. I was astounded. "What on earth possessed you to dive into strange water," I gasped when she returned dripping wet. She looked at me as she started the engine, still partly dressed and cool, while I remained seething in my poly cottons.  She replied, "I was hot" and proceeded to drive on. After a small silence, I said, "You could have waited for me." I thought that might put her in her place. She came to a gravel clouded stop at the next turn and faced me. "Get out and dive in, then." I laughed and didn't, but I got her point. What she was saying, was "do it". Change sometimes means, do it. Just do it. Most do-its, turn out well. A little or maybe a lot of thought is necessary, but after that kind of consideration, just do it. The hardest part of "doing it" is other people. They think they know what you want, but mostly it is what they want you to want. Or think you ought to want. Who knows what someone else needs? Most of us have needs that are private and personal. We have our reasons for what we would like and often we deny ourselves these things because we are worried that someone else may not approve. It is important to consider others in making decisions, but the primary matter is what you think and what affects you when the decision is made. Like my friend who dived into the lake and took a chance, it was a thoughtful one. I am sure before she dived, she looked into the depths to see if there were hazards - being the good and brave person she was. I am sure she cared about me, when she stopped to park and when she knew I wanted to cool off too, she pulled over again.  With change goes caution but after the latter, the former is mere choice. An about-turn is refreshing and while it doesn't always work out, if the consequences have been analysed, it is that leap into the water of change that often makes for a kind of  renewal and rebirth.