Note – this was quick, it was in my head. It is not perfect grammar, but then I am not usually perfect anyways. But, I wanted to share this and clear out my brain for some Christmas writing.. oh my gosh it is 13 days away!

CHANGE: Change happens when the physical environment changes, and organisms adapt in response to those changes. Ecologists have the deepest understanding of change; the rest of us are co-participants, but nobody really knows what will ultimately come of our efforts.  OKAY, interesting definition….

“Everyone” wants change, but most do nothing to see change happen. First example is politics, yes, I am “going there.” But only for a moment. Most will admit whether at the local, state or federal levels, change needs to happen. Things in politics will never be “perfect,” but there is nothing wrong with expecting honesty and actual work being done for the right reasons. Change happens when people stop talking and start doing… But this is not a political post…

Second example is your own health. Myself, I have been overweight since Jr High and it has been a battle of epic proportions through the years. Many attempts to “dieting” or more like, “die-yet” type of changes. I tried, low calories, low carbs, Atkins, Weight Watchers and others. I tried walking, biking, weight lifting, jumping rope and even a very short run at wearing the old school silver sauna suits! Oh, my goodness, the days, the things tried. All along this journey one major “item” was missing – my absolute wanting to change – for myself and no one else. To do it for me and recognize that it will not be easy, after all you do not become overweight over night and guess what – you won’t lose it over night! Change happens when you realize you have to work through bad habits, understand why you eat the way you do and why you do it all the way to learning new habits and eating healthier. It’s not dieting, it truly is life change.

Third example. Ever been around someone that constantly complains about their job / work environment, but does nothing about it? Granted, many times you may not be able to change the environment or who you work with, but what is stopping you from making the CHANGES needed to get a different job? Trust me when I say that no matter the $$ or perks you might have, if you are living out a very stressful job life, you are risking your own life! Change happens when you begin to realize you are worth more, valuable and needed in another company and you begin to work your connections and write that resume.

Your next example is someone that has had many boyfriends / girlfriends possibly multiple marriages. Many times, these individuals never take the time to stand in front of the mirror and ask the tough question – “what is wrong – with me?” When you’ve had multiples of spouses or even jobs – sometimes the common denominator is us and until you wrestle with that truth, you are going to be stuck. Change happens when you learn to ask yourself the tough questions and then make decisions on to change yourself – not others.

Last example. Religion. Oh boy, started with politics and ending with religion! Honestly was not planned, just going where the thoughts take me. Maybe you have been hurt by a church, a pastor, a leader, etc. Or maybe your parents “made you” attend church with them. Maybe you are afraid if you walk through the doors that lightning will strike or the building will crumble (it won’t by the way.) If any of those describe you, take a deep breath and know that you are not alone. Change can happen here as well. It will begin with you moving forward, realizing that no leadership or person is perfect – especially in church. I am not saying its easy to get over pain, but I am challenging you to not live in fear and allow it to take up space in your brain. Break some habits and or fears, try church again. PERHAPS you have never step foot in a church or you do not believe in a god. Maybe you believe in “luck” or “chance,” and if you do, you need to recognize that luck or chance take place because of a choice you have most likely made. Or maybe you have allowed others to sway your thinking into believing that you are born and then you just die. Personally, I find that pretty difficult to believe as I do believe in God and believe we all have a purpose on earth, but that is just me. Change can happen here if you want it to happen. You have to begin by stepping out in the unknown to you and do something different. Study, read, learn about different churches / denominations, etc. Become and be aware that there are churches that are cults and very dangerous. There are churches that are amazing. Do your homework, don’t just rely on one person to share or tell you to go to church “x” ask questions, challenge people a bit on their beliefs, give them the opportunity to share their faith, you just might end up in a church and changing your life for the better.

CHANGE: When we (you and I) make an effort to do something in order to see something or someone (self) alter in such a way that it is noticeable to others and ourselves.

Thanks for stopping by the fire,

Pastor Dennis