CHANGE IS THE POINT

TO THOSE INTERESTED IN A DEEPER CONVERSATION,

I have always struggled to articulate exactly what this philosophy represents. At times it is incredibly broad and all encompassing, and at others, intricately resonant with a particular quote or action. As I learn, so does the philosophy, while the ideas and practices also continue to change and shift. As they should. Because that – CHANGE – is the point.

My experience has taught me that fundamentally, there are few things we seek: human connection; a sense of meaning and purpose; and a desire to move in the direction of (and become) “better”. CHANGE IS THE POINT is a reminder that the road to “better”; to meaning; to connection, and purpose commences once we decide to change ourselves; to do the different thing; to become more than we previously thought we could be. Perhaps this is in exploring the deep recesses of our psyche; in accepting the burden of responsibility where previously it was shirked; or pursuing an alternative path – one that we must walk alone. This is a constant search. It is a doing; a growth-centred practice.

“Our business… has been about changing people; and the only reason we were able to do it was because we were willing to change ourselves”
– Michael Blevins

In this act, we feel most present and engaged. We feel as if we are moving closer to our purpose and towards “better”; learning, growing, and un-learning; letting go. When we inevitably meet adversity, and when things are most difficult, we most need remind ourselves that this is all a part – it is THE POINT – of this journey.

Joseph Campbell describes this process through his Myth of the Hero; the archetypical story of one who leaves the comfort of the known, endures a series of trails and returns home with the treasures of their otherworldly adventure. The gift of this journey however, is not an object. But rather who the Hero becomes; the changes they manifested within because of it.

“In pursuing that better, that’s where you’ll find meaning in your life”
– Jordan Peterson

Our ability to be patient and self-aware; to control and regulate our state in chaotic circumstances, is much of what determines how effectively we are able to navigate these transitions. Understanding how to manage ourselves is the basis for learning. And learning is the basis for change. We accept that we may not know what the road ahead looks like, what the lesson at the end of it is or even if there is such a thing as an “arrival”, but we continue to strive and aim up regardless.

As well as I can gather, this adventure starts with a deeper conversation; a better conversation; a real(er) conversation. These are invitations into a “better” story. And in time perhaps, the catalysts for profound transformations.

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”
– Victor Frankl: Man’s Search for Meaning