Wind of Change (Parshas Lech Licha)

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”  (Viktor E. Frankl)

Change is not an easy endeavor. Yet, according to many authorities, the first challenge Hashem presents to Avraham Avinu was just that - change everything. At the advanced age of 75, Avraham was told that his life until that point paled in comparison to the fulfilling years and meaningful life that awaited him. Commanded to leave his home, birthplace and family, Avraham was charged with life-altering task of upending everything. Why? Because Hashem told him so. Because Hashem explained that the change was necessary if he was to become truly great. 
It is quoted in the name of the saintly Rabbi Yisroel Salanter that, “it is easier to learn the entire Shas than to change one character trait.” While it is debatable to what degree he intended changing a trait meant, the message is nonetheless clear. Change is difficult. Change is powerful. Change is necessary. 
If we stop to think for a moment, change is everywhere. There are changes is season, temperature, surroundings and nature all around us. But changes run deeper still. From birth through our ultimate demise, we undergo countless changes - physically, physiologically, emotionally, cognitively, and the list goes on. There is not one moment in life when our thought patterns and experiences are remaining stagnant. Everything we see, hear and do has affects on us in ways that are often subconscious, but almost always, unfathomable. Like an ever-flowing river that is often calm yet other times raging, change has its stronger moments. Perhaps one the of the most noticeable, impactful and often strenuous, dramatic and trying stage of change in one's life is Middle School.  At this age, teens grapple with identity, struggle with peer pressure and sustain intense inner battles that manifest themselves in rapid and often sudden shifts in mood and temperament, anti-authoritative behaviors and seemingly unyielding questioning to every request and directive. However difficult and taxing these behaviors are, we, as parents and educators, must demonstrate unwavering patience and support. Ultimately, it is our loving support and encouragement that represents the single chance of our teens’ survival through this period. 
How did Avraham Avinu maintain his unfaltering faith in Hashem that provided the strength to embark on such a formidable life change? “Leave your land, and your birthplace, and your father’s home - to the land that I will show you.” Avraham Avinu’s Father promised to be there for him and show him the way. He would remain forever by his side, supporting him and directing him. If we are to see through our teens’ change successfully, they must be reassured that we are there throughout their journey. If they are to arrive at their own promised land, we must serve as their guiding, supportive light. The wind of change may turbulent, and it sure may not be a breeze, but rather than fight it, we can support the fresh air that it can bring in.

“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” (George Bernard Shaw)