Beautiful Change

On a recent early morning walk, I witnessed one of the most unique sunrises as it lit up the Fall foliage on my neighborhood street.  It's hard to argue that this season really is a beautiful time of year.  The colors represent the yearly message of change.  From green to gold, the inevitable takes form.  And, one can forget how spectacular the transition of seasons can be. 

The big word "change" can hold so many meanings that the very implications come across intimidating.  And, yet, life is made up of going from one passage to another.  It's really in how you look at it.  Yes, I've faced some changes that seemed rough at the time.  But with just a little fresh perspective, my attitude and approach to it turned more positive.  Someone said it best with these words: "The bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you are unwilling to turn."  So, the scenery has the potential of changing at every turn we are willing to take...keeping the journey interesting, to say the least.  A number of years ago I put together an acrostic to the word "change" that has helped me deal with those inevitable seasons to frankly see them more beautifully:

C - Consecrate yourself.  Set yourself apart unto God for the next steps.

H - Hold on to truth.  Keep what's true about the situation at the forefront.  Refrain from assumptions.

A - Accentuate the positive.  Find what's good about the change and talk about it.

N - Never run from a challenge.  Stand bold in times of transition.

G - Grow and grin.  Allow the season of change to teach you and not trip you up.

E - Expect the best.  Keep your heart focused on God's faithfulness and anticipate His best for you.

Take time to see change beyond the shock...  Allow God to put a peace in your heart and you will begin to see the beauty in it all.