I have always loved metaphors. The seasons are great metaphors for various aspects of life, as we all know. Today when I saw this tree, I could not help but think what a great metaphor it is for the reluctance to change.
The tree seems to want to change colors, and it has certainly changed at the edges, but it is otherwise practicing denial and avoidance! (Ha ha!)
But seriously, it made me think about people who try to change their ways and can’t. Or they talk all about changing something (a job they hate, an unhealthy relationship, eating or exercising habits...), and then they just don’t. The rut they are in, or the desire for the things they crave, or an inability to reformulate a meaningful vision for the better person they will become after they make those changes, are all more powerful than the drive to change, in and of itself.
I know people who want to lose weight, quit drinking, stop a bad habit, make more money and fix challenges in their lives. But they don’t. Or won’t. Or can’t.
The thing about changing something that is a long-standing habit is that you need support. You are not going to set that last cigarette down and be done, just like that. You need a program or some replacement for what you’re giving up. When I quit smoking about 30 years ago (though it seems like yesterday), every single time I craved a cigarette I did one of three things: I drank a glass of water, I went for a long ride on my bike or I called a friend. Eventually, the cravings subsided to a manageable level. But I really needed that plan of action, and I had to do that consistently for months to get through it.
That’s just one example. Weight loss is another one that is really tough to do alone. Managing alcoholism too. Cravings and addictions are so powerful that they very often require professional help. Depression is another. We may try to be tough, or feel reluctant to ask for help, or be concerned that we might appear weak, which is so sad. Change and growth and overcoming habits and life obstacles are hard. We should always look for the help that can make the journey more manageable and less lonely.
Well that is my thought of the day.
And now, I will share with you a picture of a tree that has fully embraced change.
Thank you for visiting!