Member Articles

Going through change is a journey that we all make at one time or another. The journey's intricacies are reflected in the changing seasons, the history of civilizations, a child's development, the passage of time, and the death and rebirth of a garden. We are not new to change or, rather, change is not new to us.

The process of change does not happen overnight. Between the onset of change and its outcome, lies transition.

Transition comes with its own set of rules. First, it’s worth remembering that there is no set time for one's transition period. Transition is highly individualized and very personal. Second, our need for contemplation and solitude may increase during a period of transition. It is a personal journey after all. We become the key characters of our life's play and we have to listen deeply for clues and guidance. It is a time for self-care and mininum distraction.

Transition has a beginning, a middle, and an end just like there is fall, winter, spring, and summer during a year.

Living in New England is a boon when it comes to transition clues. There is the splendor of fall. How can one fail to observe nature's change of attire? Then winter enters the stage and there is no missing the signs. I remember the first winter I ever experienced in the United States. It was the winter of 1985 and global warming had not softened winter's edge. There was lots of snow and ice and there were short days with long nights. My body used to contract in the mere hint of winter.

I confess! For me winter is best enjoyed in front of a fireplace, hot chocolate, a good book, and a cozy blanket at hand. I am not one to push for a winter snow adventure (something my family thoroughly enjoys). Yet, when I think of living in a place where the change of seasons is subtle or nonexistent, I realize how much I enjoy going through the changing seasons. Maybe I need the reminders nature provides me with. Winter is here to remind me that no matter how dark the journey becomes, there will be light again and life will spring forth in all its splendor.

What I need the most in the winter is time to myself. Being a working mom makes creating time for solitude and introspection challenging. Yet, if we want to be fully present in our lives, we need to be able to process our experiences and reflect upon our journey, our insights, our relationships, and our emotions. How do we go about creating the inner space for guidance and clarity to come in?

Why not begin by creating a sacred place for ourselves, a room or a corner, where we can go and just be? Why not take fifteen minutes, thirty minutes, one hour each day and practice “being?” Being quiet, thoughtful, and introspective, listening to our own inner voice and breathing in relaxation. It can be done.