Change (unlike)

Perhaps it’s because I’m getting along in years; perhaps it’s my genetic make-up; perhaps in my formative years I learned. For whatever excuse, the truth is I do not like “change.”

I’m much more settled when things stay the same, even when change is supposedly “for the better.” You may already have sat through my ranting about Microsoft and their “progress” in developing Windows Vista and especially Office 2007.

Let me back up. Years ago, we purchased an inexpensive graphics program to make greeting cards, invitations, or decorated papers. It was user-friendly, uncomplicated, point-and-click. A few years later, an “improved” version came out with more clip art. We purchased the new improved(?) one—one with security product key and passwords to remember, and, I might add, not at all user-friendly. A change I did not like!

Now, I’m not one to hold a grudge, but you can tell I never have quite got over it. I just wanted to decorate a card.

However, that example pales in comparison to what THEY did with Office 2007. THEY hid the applications I needed and instead included a “ribbon.” They let me have a tiny Quick Access Toolbar to customize; and it has been my lifeline. I know, you're thinking get over it; learn the more new way. I suppose I can change.

However, today, at the office, I got a new trackball mouse and new "Natural Ergonomic Keyboard." Now don’t get me wrong, they were my idea—not something forced upon me (like Office 2007 grumble, grumble).

My assistant Elaine and I both were having issues with sore wrists and thumbs from extended computer usage, and these two “upgrades” were an inexpensive way to alleviate repetitive motion problems--a plan to head off carpal tunnel difficulties.

However, I became immediately aware that their use required that ugly “c” word—“change.” You cannot imagine how often I had to backspace and correct my typing. (I’m an ex-typing teacher--proficient at one time; today, not so much). Home row is not easy to find. And that mouse! It does not move side-to-side or up-and-back. It never moves. Only the big red ball moves with two large buttons on each side to click. My arms and hand are tired from new muscle memory exercises. But, I made a commitment and intend to learn both pieces. I can change!

This reminds me about old habits formed over years of living. Certain ways of thinking, acting, responding become natural responses, and changing them is more difficult than learning new motions for the keyboard and mouse. Check out the new muscle memory exercises in Ephesians 4.

PUT OFF your old self with its deceitful desires; PUT ON the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore…”
• Put off falsehood; speak truthfully
• Work for your needs; do not steal
• Speak no unwholesome words; only beneficial ones
• Get rid of bitterness, rage, slander, & all malice
• Be kind & compassionate
• Forgive as God forgave you

Well, it is obviously time for some more changes. We may well have to hit our backspace many times and try again, but we will change. Stephen Curtis Chapman sings:

♫ “Well I got myself a T-shirt that says what I believe
I got letters on my bracelet to serve as my ID
I got the necklace and the key chain
And almost everything a good Christian needs, yeah
I got the little Bible magnets on my refrigerator door
And a welcome mat to bless you
Before you walk across my floor
I got a Jesus bumper sticker
And the outline of a fish stuck on my car
And even though this stuff's all well and good, yeah
I cannot help but ask myself ...

What about the change
What about the difference
What about the grace
What about forgiveness
What about a life that's showing
I'm undergoing the change, yeah
I'm undergoing the change

Well I've got this way of thinking that comes so naturally
Where I believe the whole world is revolving around me
And I got this way of living that I
have to die to every single day
'Cause if God's Spirit lives inside of me, yeah
I'm gonna’ live life differently.” ♫