This Version of You

It's been said that every seven years, every cell in your body has died and regenerated, creating a completely different you. So physically, you and I are entirely other people than we were in 2016. I know the science of this idea is not 100% accurate, but it's a fun starting point when thinking about the future and what's next. It's my birthday today, and if you go by this seven-year change idea, I'm on my 6th new version of myself. Like the British Science Fiction television series Doctor Who, I'm the same person, but on a continual journey of change.

Here's what I'm learning about change. It's hard...

I have the same eyes, but I see the world differently. I see the possibilities of a world to come but find myself continually stressed living in a world that isn't changing fast enough. I believe in a world that should be just and caring, where everyone should be able to live well. Yet, each day, I'm overwhelmed by the reality that the world isn't fair and marginalized people continue to live in pain. When I was younger, my eyes didn't notice the pain of others as they do now. Life was easier then. Blissful ignorance.

Change is humbling. I like feeling confident and in control, and change doesn't always offer the luxury of confidence. When I travel to somewhere I've never been, I become a learner all over again. When learning a new language, I have a pronounced accent, and I know it.

Change can be lonely. Not everyone changes at your pace, and some may struggle with who you are today. Likewise, not everyone is going to like this current version of you. You've had experiences that have changed you. Only some have walked in your shoes and through the same fields and forests, you have on your journey. You likely started the story with a community, but now you are on a completely different page. That's ok. But don't feel like you have to go backward to meet everyone's expectations of you. Stick up for the current version of you and keep moving forward.

This is why you must surround yourself with people who will walk this part of the journey with you. If you take time to think about it, you're not alone. Over the last two months, I've had many coffees and lunches with old friends, and it's been refreshing to see that others are changing too.

Also, take time to appreciate all the people who shared and added value to your journey. They may not be with you now, but they are a part of your story, and that's important.

So, whoever you are today and wherever we've met along this life journey, thank you for being a part of my story. Let's keep walking.

Thanks for reading, friend!