Changing Times

        "*At certain times in history, there is an awareness of the changing of styles of living, new inventions, and new thought. At other times, there has been a plodding along type of daily living without any awareness of change, only a passing of the seasons. What makes us aware of change? In the modern world, there are so many new inventions and telecommunication advancements that we become aware that if we don't keep up, we are outside the growth of thought. In some instances, people prefer that state and that is their choice.

        We may become aware of different influences such as clothes styles or living styles or changes in the social fabric. There may be an increase or a decrease in crime, an increase or decrease in the unemployment status, a change in buildings or cities - mostly small changes in the overall picture.

        Change within can be imperceptible and can be there as a seed or a growing concept before we are really aware of it. We live in an atmosphere of change on a daily basis and yet when we are faced with big changes, we feel unable to cope. Perhaps this is because there are so many decisions to be made, so many actions to be taken, and so many steps to be made before a journey is begun or finished. It can be overwhelming and too often the enormity of big changes causes a sense of disbelief as well as dismay. It is in those times that we must look within and strengthen ourselves for whatever lies ahead in our lives. The answers are within. You have heard that and some may say "Where?" Perhaps it is because the connection to be made is connected with the desire to be calm, to be patient, and to be ready to listen. How many take time to do that? We want answers and we want them right now. How easy that would be. Yet the steps that one must take must be guided by knowledge, right thinking, and inner guidance. If those characteristics are not present, then we may react without thinking about the best choice to be made. It is not time wasted to sit and listen, to go within.

        Changing times cause unsettled energies. They cause different frequencies of energies that we are sometimes not aware of and sometimes we are aware of at a level which is not conscious. Our body knows before we do and yet how many pay attention? How to keep one's energies calm in the midst of unsettled and perhaps chaotic times? Become aware of hypertension when the emotions seem to get out of control. Calm the body with quiet breathing if not a quiet place to focus on balance. Be strong within and try to think clearly. Try not to make too many decisions at a time. String them out like beads on a necklace. Tie them together with will and strength of mind and calmness of purpose. Be confident of one's ability to know what to do. Mistakes will be made. Do not blame yourself. Simply learn from them and begin again. Calm yourself before decisions are made."