When Change Is Upon Us

Something is profoundly different. It pervades me. This is something I have not felt before and I am not sure how to adjust to it.

The Nature of Change

Change interrupts the flow of our lives. It offers opportunity by affording the chance for us to examine our lives and possibly pursue a different course. Understanding the nature of change is inherent in navigating it. Sometimes we initiate change and other times it comes on its own. Either way, it affects us, in both profound and lesser ways. Openings almost always offer change.

Alchemy is a process of change. It has a power that changes or transforms something in a mysterious or impressive way. An example of alchemy that is often given is the transmutation of base metals into gold. Alchemy is not one standard process. It is a mixture of lab experimentation, philosophy and spiritual practice. Change also differs in how it occurs and what it brings and there often is a bit of mystery involved in change.

We are in a time of profound change that is an alchemy of sorts affecting both our outer and inner lives. Things are changing all around us. We are changing within as we witness and experience these changes. There are strong elements of the unknown and uncertainty regarding what this change will bring and how we each will be affected.

A Feeling of Difference

Inherent in change is difference.  As humans, we are often uncomfortable with changes in our circumstances as we go from one state to another. These changes can unsettle us as we experience them. We feel different than we once did and are not sure what to do with it. In times of profound change, the difference we experience can be a lot to deal with.

The presence of the unknown is always a challenge. How can we know where the changes we are experiencing will lead? How can we prepare? We can’t. So, what is needed is to get comfortable navigating the unknown and make our way the best we can. We can go within and get in touch with how we are feeling and find ways to deal with it. We can focus on staying centered and being in the present moment.

Alchemy provides a catalyst for change. If we think of turning a base metal into gold through alchemy, difference is pervasive. The base metal is undergoing radical changes. What is the catalyst of the changes we are experiencing? It could be the need for the systems that surround us to change. They no longer are working for many people. Individually, we may be changing our perspectives and level of acceptance of what is happening around us. The crises created by change are upending us and may even be changing who we are. Our feelings and emotions are reacting to what is happening and we may be experiencing fear, anger or sadness.