Have you ever asked someone, “How was your day?” Did you ever get the response, “Oh, just another day, nothing really happened today.” Hmmm…Nothing happened today?
Let’s back up for just a moment. Are we under the impression that it would be very unusual if
From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”
[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.” As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.
In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]
Like many other people, I practice the act of giving. Some call it the tithe; others refer to it as abundant sharing; still others say it is
[This is a great day to talk about “love!” Don’t you think so? Actually, every day is a good day to talk about love. Be sure to link to some previous posts below, and have a Happy Hearts Day!]
Has anyone ever told you, “God loves you”? Maybe at times you yourself have said that to others; I certainly have said it to people many, many times. But why does God love you and me? What is it we need to do so that
I’ve never heard anyone say, “I can’t wait to get older!” We all want to stay young. In fact we want to live forever, don’t we? Why is that?
Is there something in our genes that makes us
Sometimes situations force us to make changes. At other times, we get so tired of our current results that we initiate change. Sometimes in life we know we need to change, but just refuse to change.
Why do we fight and resist change at times?
At some point, we recognize the need for change. Perhaps we see it or someone else points it out to us. But, we all know too well that nothing changes by simply recognizing a need for change.
For example, if you are overweight then you recognize there needs to be a change. You may even desire to weigh a certain amount. The end result of the change is appealing, but changing what needs to change to arrive at that point is not pleasant at all.
Like everything else, change starts in your mind first, and most of the time the mind objects to change. “No, I don’t want to eat smaller portions and cut out unhealthy snacks!” “No! I don’t want to exercise every day. I don’t have enough time! What if I overdo it?”
The mind objects to leaving the comfortable environment that it has become so accustomed to. We all like to be comfortable, and change interrupts our comfort zone. We many times love and protect that comfort zone regardless of the results we are getting.
The mind seems to have some kind of objection whether the possible changes are little changes or big changes. The mind does not want to be interrupted or bothered. In a sense, it protects that comfort zone.
These Keys Work!
So how can you bring about change in your life? Here are two key you can use when you really want to see some change in your life. Number one, you must consistently remind yourself of the reason and end result the change will bring about. For example, say “When I eat smaller portions and cut out some snacks I will lose weight, feel healthier and live longer.”
This first key is important, no matter what kind of change you are pursuing. “Spending the money and time to take this course will improve my skills and abilities and give me much more to offer prospective employers.”
If you don’t keep reminding yourself of why, your mind comes back with a whole lot of reasons why you really don’t need to change anything! “This is too hard; you can’t do this; you really don’t need to go this far; you really need some cookies!”
Just realize that your mind is protecting your comfort zone. Simply respond back with the end result of this change.
And, number two, be patient. Stay the course. Stay consistent and persistent; both pay big dividends. The change will come.
Have You Ever Planted A Garden?
I haven’t planted a garden for awhile, but when I did I learned a lot about patience. After putting the seeds in the ground, I was consistent in watering every day. And it seems like there always came a point where one day I would say, “Well, where is everything?” All this persistent and consistent watering has produced nothing. Were the seeds I planted bad seeds?”
It’s easy to get impatient when you see no noticeable results. But the results will come; stay persistent and consistent. Don’t let your mind suggest that you should quit and head back to your comfort zone.
Again remind your mind of the goal, the place you will arrive as a result of the change. And then, don’t forget that change takes time; be patient.
It’s Just The Way Life Is
Change is really a part of life. When you realize that, life takes on a whole new excitement. You are not stuck in a rut. You can change whatever you set your mind to do. Don’t be afraid of change; instead, embrace it.
The effort needed for change will vary, but the results when you reach your desired destination will greatly outweigh the time and effort you put into the change.
If things in your life are not bringing you the results that you really desire, then it’s time for a change. Are you ready to venture out of your comfort zone? It all depends upon your desire to see real change happen in your life.
Mike Verdicchio
2013
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From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”
[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.” As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.
In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]
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