Let Each Shine By Their Own Light

There are two kinds of change. There is the change of appearance, which is of a superficial nature. And there is the change of heart which occurs when one chooses to see an idea or situation in a different light. This latter type of change is of a more substantive nature. It’s change from the inside out (which is the only Real change possible). Change that occurs from the outside in has to do with presentation and has nothing whatsoever to do with essentials. This brand of change does not reflect genuine transformation; it is merely a reflection of how a single state or condition has the potential to present itself in multiple ways. For example, you can be inwardly unhappy and bitter because you believe the world is out to get you in a situation where outwardly you appear to have little financial resources. And you can also be inwardly unhappy and bitter because you believe the world is out to get you in a situation where outwardly you appear to have abundant financial resources. So even if you start out materially poor and this outward condition changes to appear more favorable, such success does not necessarily mean that your bitterness and unhappiness will disappear. Yes, the package may be different but the contents will be just the same if the transformation does not arise from the within. Change, in order to be substantive, must be rooted in mental transmutation. The changes we see are just the outward show of things. The changes we feel are what actually indicate either true spiritual development or relative stagnation.