Transition

“There is a time for departure, even when there’s no certain place to go.” -- Tennessee Williams

As a self-imposed wordnazi, I am quick to realize when someone uses a word they shouldn't, but, in today's lassez-faire and apparently rule-free English grammar, anything goes.  However, some words just simply don't fit.

Take change versus transition.  Often used synonymously, but carrying far different meanings and weight.  Change is short-lived, usually a one-time occurence.  You change clothes, you change planes, and sure, occaisonally you even change your mind.

But change is an active, energetic word.  It's like flipping a switch.  The light was off, now it's on.  That's a change.  It happened, it's over.  A blue room is now painted red.  It's been changed.  That part is over, completed.  Transition is not the change -- it's living with the change after it's been made.

How many of us are actually prepared for the transition when we decide to make the change?  Perhaps that is why some people choose not to embrace change.  They fear the transition and letting go of the sameness of each day.  An understandable fear -- it's a departure from comfort, routine and everything we are used to.  But with change and successful transition, you can carve out a new routine, new creature comforts and fall in love with the after product just as much as the original.

Now that I have sought out change I am actively looking forward to the transition.  I know those around me who love me are worried, for all the reasons noted above, and for the fact that I am not only changing my life, but also the lives of those around me.  But I also firmly believe in letting something other than fear rule my life -- like passion, conviction and faith. I have a passion for life and living and I let that rule my psyche.  I will get what I want in life and I will do anything to make it happen.  I have faith in my surroundings, in my abilities and in the actions of those around me, and where faith brings me, I know I can take it the rest of the way.

We do have a certain place to go, and we could not be happier to make this transition. 

"On a long journey of human life, faith is the best of companions; it is the best refreshment on the journey; and it is the greatest property."  -- Buddha