When Change Brings Challenge

What a couple of years it has been, and I do not know about you but every time I think things are about to go back to “normal,” there seems to be more change. When I was hired for this role, Emmaus was set to be one place I did not have to wear a mask every day, and quickly that changed. When I moved to Australia, I never thought that I would be watching my brother get married online because I cannot get back home to Canada, but alas here we are.

As students/parents of Emmaus, you have already faced change this year. As you prepared to return to school/send your children back to school, the government enforced changes for our protection and now we have seen many students starting the year online. For those that did return on campus, it has not been the same as only half the school is present and teachers are wearing masks during lessons? Many families are split with some children in school while siblings are at home? None of this feels “normal.” But - what might feel unfair or challenging, is really a great chance to build resilience – something I promise you will all need in life!

As I reflect on change I am reminded of Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV). The scriptures say “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” Continue reading, and picking back up in verse 34 it says “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

I am reminded in these verses, that no matter what changes life brings, God knows my worries and that by worrying I detract from the present, letting things I cannot change steal my focus. Instead, we should enjoy today as best we can and deal with tomorrow, well… tomorrow!

In the meantime, here are some practical tools to help cope with change:

1. Acknowledgement – Whenever change is present it's important to acknowledge and understand what is happening. This can alleviate some of the stress that denial and putting it off may cause.
2. Take time to reflect – Reflection is important. Often, we don’t take time to be quiet or still and think deeply. Doing so might help you to understand what you are feeling or reframe the way you are looking at the situation.
3. Strive for normalcy – When life feels like it is out of control, we often crave normalcy and cling to whatever gives us a piece of that! So wherever possible - keep the routines, and structures in place that make you feel like you have control.
4. Celebrate the positives – The glass is half full! Ask yourself, is it all bad? What good is there in this? Maybe a few extra weeks at home or with your kids at home has it perks?
5. Manage your stress – Are changes, adding to stress or creating new stress? What can you do to lighten your load, or support your self care? Self care is important always but especially when we are struggling.
6. Seek Support – Where all else fails, or you are still feeling like you need help – seek support.

We recognise that at times, we all need a little extra support. Sometimes we just need someone to talk to, and to process things like change! Our Wellbeing
Team are here to support your children through these times. You can make a referral to see one of our Counsellors on the Emmaus Wellbeing Website.
Remember, despite everything going on in the world, one thing remains constant and unchanging – our God! I’ll leave you with Hebrews 13:8 (ESV) “Jesus
Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”