New Shoes

Have you ever purchased new shoes? Well of course you have. Do you recall what it felt like? I like to take advantage of bargains, which means I frequently shop for new shoes and may actually help me with this. You see, once those shoes are really worn in and comfortable it is difficult to replace them. The new shoes often feel stiff and unaccommodating. The new shoes might be slighter tighter in one spot then your old pair was or the material might not be as forgiving for your toes as the material of the old pair. Whatever it is, sometimes buying new shoes is a bit of a task.

Life can be like that. Change can be difficult. Sometimes we float through life without even realizing we need a change. Then suddenly something occurs to get our attention. Sometimes it is something big: a death, a birth, a marriage, a new job, a new house, or your child entered school for the first time. Sometimes it is something seemingly small: a new allergy, a new medication, a new neighbor, a new procedure at work, your child’s homework, the new teacher, or the new challenging behavior from your child. But change is a part of our life, or it needs to be. I guess you can be the guy in the back who says “I am not changing”. But I’m not really sure how that helps you. Being adaptable and changeable can help you impact your world in a positive manner.

In a world full of change, we have all certainly had opportunity to respond to this challenge – embracing change and making the most of it. That hasn’t been easy, well not for most of us. For many it has been laden with grief, uncertainty, and loneliness for others even the loss of loved ones, homes, and jobs. It has been a difficult year. I’m hoping for a better year. But for now, for today I am going to see if I can make new shoes work for me. Change can be difficult, but in the end I am usually glad I was willing to try it. Best wishes for you as we begin a New Year!