Transformation

Buddhism teaches that there is no life and death, no being or non-being, no coming or going, we are just continuously transformed. In the same way that water transforms to ice or steam, we have transformed from a former life into this one and from this one into another.

Even if you don't believe in reincarnation, you have already experienced many transformation in this life time.

When you were 5 years old, you were a completely different person to who you are today. That 5 year old 'you' in one sense no longer exists, but you are still you. You have been completely transformed in your thoughts, your emotions, your beliefs, your ideas and your physical body. Someone who knew you when you were 5 wouldn't recognise you today, but it doesn't alter the fact that the 5 year old and you are the same human being.

People sometimes feel that they are unable to undergo any change in their life. They feel that they can't change their behaviour, the way they look or the way they think and feel about their lives. But everyone has the ability to transform. You have already been doing it all of your life (and if you believe it, in your past lives).

You have heard people say many times "If I can do it, anyone can". I would like to suggest instead "You've done it before, you can do it again". Don't ever doubt your ability to transform any part or all of your life. The ability to change is one of the few things that all of us have experienced.

Consider how far you have come and know that you can always do it again and again. And if you don't like the results your choices have given you up until now, you are always free to make new choices. Be the master of your transformation by asking yourself:

"How will this food transform my body?"
"How will this thought transform my mind?"
"How will saying this transform my sense of happiness or peace?"
"How will watching this television program transform my intellect?"
"How will being honest in this situation transform my level of confidence?"
"How will expressing my view of the world transform me and those around me?"

There is no 'before' and 'after'. There is simply an ongoing process of transformation. Every thought, action and reaction in this present moment will either build upon all changes you have orchestrated in the moments before or change you in an instant. Like sugar dissolving in water or rock turning into a diamond, the process may occur quickly or slowly, but there is nothing in our experience that remains constant.

If you are programmed to change, make it a change for the better. Take the opportunity every time you are faced with a choice to make a positive transformation. You've done it before, you can do it again.