To everything turn, turn, turn
There is a season turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under Heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
(Pete Seeger, based on Ecclesiastes 3)
Life is changing again.
Here we go. Are you ready?
It has been said that August is the Sunday night of summer. I think that’s especially the case for teachers and students who are starting to count down the remaining weeks of freedom. Although we still have another month of summer weather, many of us are feeling the season grind to an end. We’ll transition from the lazy days of summer to a tighter schedule, and earlier wake-up times.
Some of us are preparing to send young adults off to college. Some of us are about to become empty nesters. Some are awaiting the birth of a child or grandchild. Others are watching and waiting as loved ones fade away. Some are facing the challenge of a worsening health condition or are scheduling intimidating medical procedures. Still others are hoping for good news regarding employment status or a resolution to financial concerns.
As a nation we face major changes in the next few months. Some are frightened of the possibilities, while others are encouraged. On a global level, we are witnessing tragedies and anxiously await resolution. Things are also changing in our parish, in our families, and communities.
How do you deal with change? Do you embrace it, running toward the next phase of life? Do you stiffen your upper lip and brace yourself? Are you afraid, seeing change as a bully forcing you into the fight of your life?
Some of the changes will be joyful, some bittersweet, still others will elicit sorrow and pain. We prefer having control over our circumstances, but that is generally an illusion. No matter the outcome, we know that still water becomes stagnant. Change is a necessary part of life. But we can take comfort in knowing that our faithful God is unchangingly present, walking with us, providing “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.”