Beech Tree News Network

Change is a constant in life – whether we like it or not. Jim Rohn said, “If you don’t like where you are, change it. You’re not a tree.” I anticipate change in three areas: the changes of a new year, a change in my daily responsibilities, and a change in my column’s publication schedule.

Each New Year typically brings change. We cannot foresee all of the changes a new year will bring, but we know things will change. We often see annual changes in our tax rates, in our health insurance coverage, and in interest rates. I’ve come to expect it. Maya Angelou said, “If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” I anticipate these changes and others, so I am not too upset when I notice them – even when I don’t like the changes.

I also anticipate a change in my daily responsibilities. Over the years as a former teacher and as a parent and grandparent, I have provided quite a bit of child supervision and care. However, baby sitting on a regular basis is not something I have done. Benjamin Franklin said, “When you’re finished changing, you’re finished.” I’m trusting that God will strengthen me because I recently volunteered to babysit for the newest member of our family, my great grandson, two days a week. In a few months, he can attend daycare where he will enjoy playing with other children. Until then, I get to enjoy some time with this precious baby.

Additionally, I am grateful to Beech Tree News for allowing me to write “A Slice of Time” since April 2011. After losing my late husband, writing the column provided some structure to my life. George Eliot said, “It’s never too late to be who you might have been.” Thanks to Beech Tree News, this column allows me to share my thoughts and myself with others. Beginning this week, “A Slice of Time” will be on the Beech Tree News website during the first and third weeks of each month, rather than every week.

Change is not always comfortable. Someone said, “When God wants you to grow, he makes you uncomfortable.” For me, three expected changes are the changes of a new year, a change in my daily responsibilities, and a change in my column’s publication schedule. As we adjust to 2022, I’m going to get comfortable with these changes.