The only thing in the universe that does not change… is the fact that all things change. Humans are a curious contradiction in that they resist change much of the time, yet are driven in many ways to learn and grow. Learning and growing are the essence of human change, essential for survival.

And so, most people certainly recognize the need for change on almost every front, yet are reluctant to do much of anything to disturb their own particular situation, or their current accommodation of the powers that be. And, all too often, the change they think is needed is not that which will foster their own liberty and peace.

From the Declaration of Independence:

“Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.”

“Better the Devil you know than the Devil you don’t.” “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” “Don’t rock the boat.” “He’s a son of a bitch, all right, but he’s OUR son of a bitch.”

Fear of the unknown and unfamiliar is possibly one of the most inhibiting emotions, and few people want to trade familiar thoughts and beliefs for something new if they are at all comfortable with what they have. It takes great energy and courage to imagine something different and better, especially when the prospect of achieving the change seems unlikely or costly.

And then, all too often, the new turns out to be not much different than the old. Unless people have a clear vision of what they want, and why they want it, they will tend to settle for whatever falls within their comfort zone and requires the least effort.

This, of course, is the usual outcome of the political process. People are sometimes stirred to action when their own lives are disrupted and their possessions threatened or actually confiscated, but they are easily led to give their support to most anyone who promises relief, without actual proof that the person is both willing and able to fulfill that promise. The words and some of the details may change, but the politicians and bureaucrats continue to control our lives and the confiscation of property continues without much pause.

How much of this is the result of the refusal to consider real changes? How much is due to a lack of understanding of the principles of liberty and justice? How much of it can be charged to the fact that, deep down, most don’t really want any substantial change since they receive some of the stolen loot and at least imagine that they can exercise some control, direct or vicarious, over their neighbors?

What kinds of change can you live with? What are you willing to do to help make that change happen?