Change Yourself First
“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.” ~ Rumi
We have contemplated many times on how change is so essential in our world and in our own lives. We have also acknowledged that change can be, at the same time, both frightening as well as exciting. While change is essential, what is even more essential is knowing what needs to change: something external or something internal.
Many times we mistakenly identify externals as the things that need to change. We might put in a lot of time, energy, and effort in effecting external change. When we accomplished all that we set out to change, we realized that nothing was actually different. Why? Because the change that was necessary was not external. The change that was needed was within ourselves.
Perhaps that is the hallmark of someone who is truly wise: knowing what needs to change.
There is nothing wrong with trying to effect change in our world. However, that change should only be initiated by someone who truly knows his or her own self. If we are clouded, our change will be clouded as well and we might effect change but the change might not be what people truly need. Wisdom will inform us as to the need for change and the manner in which it might best come about.
The world might mock us for seeking wisdom. It might say, “If you think something needs to be done and you want to do it, by all means, go right ahead.” If we do that, we will be a reckless people. Instead, ask for the wisdom needed to guide our decisions so that the changes we make either externally or internally may be what God wants of us.
FAITH ACTION: Pray for wisdom and insight, that you may know what needs to change and that you might have the courage to make changes, external or internal, as needed.
[If you are a parishioner at St. Thomas More Church, please note that tonight’s Vigil Mass for the Holy Day of Obligation for All Saints will be at 4:00 p.m. so that you can be back home at 5:00 p.m. for Trick-or-Treat. Bring your child dressed in his/her Halloween outfit and have them receive their first treat at the end of Mass.]