We are living in a world that is constantly changing!  And if we are honest with ourselves and one another, we have to admit that while we like and embrace some of the changes, there are many that we do not care for!

-We do not care for rising gas prices and a falling 401k!

-We do not like increased government and diminishing service!

-We do not want higher prices and less for our money!

     In fact, much of the change that comes our way in a lifetime is change that we spend a good deal of our time and energy fighting against, only to discover that our fight is wasted because change is coming and some change cannot be stopped!

     During the past year we have heard a lot about change and we have experienced much change as a country and as individuals.  And while most Americans want change, very few want it for themselves and for their families!

     Many of you know first hand and in a very personal way – that change fought against and resisted has not been a friend! 

-The change that you experienced may have come in the form of some physical sickness, disease or the death of one that you loved and care for!

-The change that came knocking at your door may have been a lay-off, down-sizing or unexpected firing!

-The change that you have done battle with may have been within your family, where the unexpected and unplanned happened and you are still having a hard time accepting it!

     Whatever the shape and content of the change that has come your way, you know that while it may have hurt, it did not kill you!  There may have been moments when you thought that it was going to take you out, but you are still ALIVE!

     You are still alive right now in this moment and this is a part of the thing that gives you your strength and your purpose.  Because while you and I cannot stop change from coming, we can learn from it and be made stronger by it!