Change

Change can be subtle or dramatic,

temporary or permanent,

predictable or unexpected.

It can whisper it's way into your life 

as unnoticed as the leaves changing colors, 

or barge in like the uninvited house guest

and make itself at home on your clean sofa. 

It can feel like the fleeting excitement

and joy surrounding a fling with summer,

or the lasting pain that freezes itself 

into a mothers broken heart. 

It can be magical 

like snow on Christmas morning, 

or deceiving like blue skies that open up

and rain on your wedding day. 

We expect life to be altered when we

graduate high school, get married, have children. 

Often we overlook the impact friendships

gained or lost during these times will leave. 

A new look or style could be more 

than a new cut or shirt,

but the signs of a maturing mind, 

a healing heart, or personal acceptance. 

Death, illness and injury can leave wrinkles

so distinct that looking back you can plainly see 

the difference between who you were before and after. 

Support, laughter and prayers can leave beauty marks

so evident that others will clearly see 

for years to come. 

Change is unique to the individual,

life altering, constant,

inevitable. 

My worst enemy 

and my greatest asset.

I wouldn't be who I am today,

believe what I do,

trust so completely,

grieve so compassionately,

or live so fully 

without the changes 

that have molded and shaped me.

The pain that has taught my how to cry,

the friends who have showed me how to laugh,

the faith that helps me do these simultaneously,

are irrerplaceable. 

Change shall not define me, 

but point to the One who does.