I’m not entirely sure how to begin this blog post. I wanted to reflect on change or transitions or growth – it feels like this year has been full of all of those things at the library (and everywhere else!) and it isn’t stopping anytime soon. I am on my way out, moving to a new job, a new city, a new country! It is so exciting, but also so challenging! But through great challenge comes great growth.
If there is one quote I’ve hung onto this year it is this:
“The only constant in life is change” – Heraclitus
As “developed” or “civilized” or “enlightened” human beings, we often operate under the misunderstandings that we’re at the top of the food chain, that we have conquered the earth, that we own it, that we’re invincible, that we are in control. But in fact, the opposite is true. We’re not in control, we’re stewards of the earth, we’re a part of it, we’re vulnerable, and all of that is good. Society tries to push us to be the best, if you’re not the ____-est, what are you? Well, you’re an important part of the puzzle, that’s what. Our worth does not come from being in control or being the best. If the only constant in life is change, stop trying to put your security in things that are so flimsy, that change all the time. Reflect on where or who you were two years ago, five years ago, ten years ago…so much has changed in that time! And for better or for worse, it has shaped you or you grew actively into who you are now. Who do you want to be in two years, five years, ten years? What can you do to make that happen? How can you be flexible on that path when facing life’s constant changes?
All that reflection is just to say as I step down from my role as Children’s Librarian; farewell, I wish the best for you!