Embrace Change and It Will Teach You
Resist Change and It Will Torment You
To embrace change we must step out of our comfort zones. Understandably, most of us don't feel comfortable outside our comfort zones.
The only constant is change is a well recognized concept yet humans resist change.
Looking back on my life, I seem to be something of a change addict. Some people are. Most people prefer familiar circumstances and conditions.
Idealizing the past is related to resisting change. We filter out painful memories when recalling past experiences and this causes us to believe things were better then.
The slogan "Make America Great Again" takes advantage of this aspect of human nature. It is also appealing to racist Americans who believe America was "great" when racism was more acceptable, but I digress.
By any measure the United States is great, even in not so great ways. The United States has been the dominating economic and military superpower since world war two, and in recent decades has become more dominant.
It has been dominating as an agent of change that has embraced change.
Embrace Change and Stop Trying to Preserve Cultural Identity
Efforts to preserve cultural identity often result in suffering and torment.
An ironic example is Tibet. Buddhists recognize and accept the transitory nature of life yet these same people feel compelled to resist the changes brought about by the Chinese. The Chinese were brutal in their takeover of Tibet. Their level of brutality was associated with karmic forces as are all worldly experiences.
When China invaded and annexed Tibet in the 1950s, the Tibetans had no paved roads, traveled on what were mostly foot paths, and were living essentially as they had been for centuries. Change was inevitable. Their resistance to change resulted in tremendous suffering and torment. Karma.
Here in the United States the Native Americans are still making efforts to preserve their cultural identity and resist change as they have for centuries. Obviously this has not benefited them and is the cause of terrible suffering and torment.
Examples of problems associated with attempting to preserve cultural identity abound.
Strangely many highly educated well-intentioned people think preserving cultural identity is not only a good thing, but a vitally important thing.
This causes people to ascribe validity to belief systems which do not serve their adherent's best interests, all in the name of preserving cultural identity.
Preservation of Cultural Identity Reinforces Feelings of Separation
We Must Embrace Change to Know God-Self
Efforts to preserve cultural identity are ego-mind, or left-brain inspired and result in suffering.
Ego-mind wants us to believe we are separate to validate fearful concepts.
We are all extensions of The One Holy Source and cannot be separate.
Embracing Change: A Lesson from History
Change is an inherent part of human existence. It is a constant force that shapes our lives, societies, and the world at large. While change can be intimidating and challenging, its importance in our growth and progress cannot be overstated. History is replete with examples of individuals, communities, and even entire civilizations that have suffered greatly by resisting change and clinging to the familiar. In this essay, we will explore the significance of embracing change and adapting to new circumstances, drawing from historical events that illustrate the consequences of failing to do so.
The Inevitability of Change
Change is an inevitable force in our lives. From the earliest days of human history, our ancestors had to adapt to changing environments, climates, and circumstances in order to survive. The ability to embrace change and innovate has been a driving force behind our species' survival and evolution.
One of the most fundamental changes in human history was the transition from a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle to settled agricultural communities. Those who resisted this change, clinging to the old ways, often faced starvation and hardship as they were left behind by the progress of those who embraced agriculture. The agricultural revolution not only provided a more stable food source but also laid the foundation for the development of complex societies.
The Consequences of Resistance to Change
Throughout history, resistance to change has led to numerous examples of suffering and stagnation. One striking example is the fall of the Roman Empire. Despite being one of the most powerful and advanced civilizations of its time, the Roman Empire's refusal to adapt to changing political, economic, and social realities ultimately led to its decline and fall. The rigid bureaucracy, corruption, and inability to address the needs of its diverse population contributed to its downfall.
Similarly, the resistance to change played a significant role in the decline of the Qing Dynasty in China during the 19th century. As the world was rapidly changing through industrialization and global trade, the Qing Dynasty clung to traditional Confucian values and resisted modernization efforts. This resistance led to internal unrest, foreign invasions, and ultimately the collapse of the dynasty.
The importance of embracing change is not limited to empires and civilizations. Individuals and businesses also face consequences when they resist change. The failure of companies like Blockbuster, which resisted the shift to online streaming, is a clear example. In the face of changing consumer preferences and technological advancements, Blockbuster's refusal to adapt ultimately led to its downfall, while companies like Netflix embraced change and thrived.
Embracing Change: A Catalyst for Progress
On the other hand, embracing change has been a catalyst for progress and innovation throughout history. The Renaissance, for example, marked a period of profound change in Europe. Embracing new ideas, scientific advancements, and artistic innovations, the Renaissance paved the way for the modern world. The willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and embrace change propelled society forward in numerous fields.
Another pivotal moment in history that illustrates the importance of embracing change is the Industrial Revolution. The adoption of new technologies and the shift from agrarian economies to industrial ones revolutionized production, transportation, and communication. Those who embraced these changes saw unprecedented economic growth and improvement in living standards, while those who resisted suffered the consequences of obsolescence.
In the realm of science and medicine, the discovery of antibiotics in the early 20th century marked a paradigm shift in healthcare. Embracing the groundbreaking discovery of penicillin and other antibiotics revolutionized the treatment of infectious diseases and saved countless lives. Those who were slow to adopt these medical advancements faced dire consequences as diseases became increasingly resistant to outdated treatments.
Adapting to New Circumstances
Embracing change is not just about acknowledging the need for change; it also involves adapting to new circumstances. The ability to adapt to changing situations is a valuable skill that individuals and societies must cultivate. One of the most vivid examples of this is the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Faced with the sudden and alarming threat of nuclear war, President John F. Kennedy and his advisors had to adapt quickly to a rapidly changing situation. Their willingness to consider alternative strategies and negotiate with the Soviet Union ultimately averted a catastrophic conflict.
In the 21st century, the COVID-19 pandemic serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adapting to new circumstances. Countries and communities that were quick to adopt public health measures, adapt their healthcare systems, and develop vaccines were better equipped to mitigate the impact of the virus. Those that resisted change or downplayed the severity of the pandemic faced devastating consequences in terms of public health and economic stability.
Conclusion
History is replete with lessons about the importance of embracing change and adapting to new circumstances. From the fall of empires to the rise of innovative societies, the consequences of resisting change are clear. Change is an inherent part of human existence, and our ability to adapt and innovate in the face of change is a testament to our resilience and progress.
In our personal lives and in our communities, embracing change can lead to growth, innovation, and prosperity. It is not enough to simply recognize the need for change; we must also be willing to adapt and seize the opportunities that change presents. As we move forward, let us remember the lessons of history and embrace change as a driving force for a brighter and more promising future.
