Change: A Personal Process

For thousands of years, some of the most advanced and creative minds in human history have searched for solutions to the problems of the world. And still, the politics, the politicians, and the systems that we live in are riddled with problems and are mostly not effective in providing real solutions. “Progress” in society is often followed by regression to worse and less effective ways of doing things.

Even political movements that begin with the best intentions and the most intelligent and skilled leaders often become corrupted. Sometimes, it is success itself that does the most to corrupt them.

Change in the world has to begin on the most basic level, which means it must begin with each individual overcoming his or her own faults and weaknesses and illusions. Individuals who have overcome their own faults will treat the people around them in a better way, not passing on suffering or fear or negativity or abuse to those around them, or to future generations. They will know how to exercise kindness and consideration and compassion, instead of using other people for their own ends.

When people act in a more enlightened way, it provides the opportunity for them to learn from one another. Through this process, it is possible to transform the world a little at a time. A person who makes real changes will interact differently with his or her family, friends, and community. Being a positive influence prompts other people to act positively. The process of change that this helps bring about is gradual and not as spectacular or dramatic as wars or revolutions. But it is the only type of change that has a chance to last.