Change ~

I love this ~ A quote to share from Johannes/Sevaji on change ~ 

What Would You Like To Change?

Change is a fundamental aspect of existence. The whole universe is changing and everything in it, from the smallest grain of sand to the largest planet, is in a state of flux. Even things that seem dormant are changing but at a slower rate. The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus observed 2500 years ago that a man cannot step into the same river twice – one, because the river is ever-changing and, two, because the man is ever-changing.

Animals seem to adapt to change rather naturally, much like water adapts to the easiest course. Man is a little more stubborn; he tries to change nature and circumstances to adapt to his whim. Thus each individual tries to change the world according to his or her desire. Needless to say, this causes a lot of stress which seems to be the one thing man has not been able to change and overcome.

Think for a moment: what would you like to change in your world to make your life less stressful? I’m sure just about 100% of the people reading this immediately thought of something external to themselves to change. You may have thought to yourself that if you had more money you’d be less stressed, or if you had a better job, or more time, or a less naggy spouse, or a more laid back boss. The thing to understand is that these external things are the most difficult to change because it is not within your grasp to change them. yet, we continue to focus our intentions on changing the virtually unchangeable.

The one thing you do have the power to change is you. Just like the river that Heraclitus spoke of, you too are ever-changing. Like a farmer who redirects the waters of a river to bring more or less water to his crop as needed, we can direct our consciousness where needed.

Your attitude, beliefs, moods, pastimes, and so forth can change at anytime. Sometimes they change by personal epiphanies, new knowledge or by experience, but sometimes our attitudes, beliefs and moods become so rigid and engrained in us that we cling to them even when we know they are not correct. Life is too short to hold on to any attitude, belief, or mood on that doesn’t bring freedom and joy.

Most people when asked if there is anything about themselves that they’s like to change can come up with at least one attribute. What is yours?

There are a few steps to making positive changes in your life, as follows:

1. Look at yourself, not the external, for what needs to be changed. That is, don’t say “if I had a better job I’d be a better person.”
2. Acknowledge what needs to be changed. Nothing will change if you don’t take the time to recognize it.
3. Have the desire to change it. If you don’t truly want to change, it won’t happen.
4. Do what needs to be done to make the improvements. Acknowledging and desiring are not enough, you must take the necessary steps to make the changes happen. In some cases it may require soul searching, in other cases it may require getting professional help. If you are overweight you may need a personal trainer. If you are an alcoholic you may need AA intervention.
5. Be patient. Allow yourself time to make the change and don’t beat yourself up if you occasionally slip up. Try to enjoy the journey of self-discovery and make it part of your spiritual quest.

I think most people want a more beautiful, peaceful and loving world. What better way to create this than by starting with yourself? As you become more beautiful, peaceful and loving you will find that your relationship and perception of the world will change.

Blessings,

Johannes ~ Sevaji