Charles Darwin is often attributed with the idea that survival in nature doesn’t belong to the strongest or smartest, but to those who can adapt to change. This concept, while rooted in nature, holds a crucial lesson for us humans too. Life, in all its forms, is a sequence of shifts—both good and bad. Our ability to adapt, or lack thereof, can deeply impact our well-being, especially in times of upheaval.
In our pursuit of happiness, we often lay out our life plans anticipating prosperity and smooth sailing. Concurrently, we strive to dodge undesirable situations. Yet, our resistance to change, to the impermanence inherent in existence, becomes a potent source of our discontentment and sorrow. The truth is that life operates through cycles, the ever-changing tides of ebbs and flows. Embracing this truth, rather than resisting it, holds the key to our happiness.
Recently, I returned from a meditation retreat—a serene experience that was also incredibly challenging. The routine demanded adjustment: early alarms, long meditation sessions, and stretches of silence and solitude. The retreat meant relinquishing my daily tea, chocolate, and even my usual diet. It meant being without modern comforts and contending with the harsh cold of winter in the New Zealand mountains. It meant engaging in humbling tasks like cleaning and manual labor.
My post-retreat journey back home was met with a chaotic airport scene due to unexpected fog. My plans unraveled, and the frustration and helplessness I felt contrasted sharply with my peaceful state from meditation. It was a vivid reminder that life’s twists can come unbidden and thwart our expectations.
This recurring theme of adaptability extends further into my personal history. Years ago, I was an avid soccer player, a passion that was curtailed by a debilitating injury. But this loss led me to discover yoga, a new source of purpose and wellness. Recently, another operation on my injured knee demanded more adjustments—housebound, relying on crutches, altering my daily routines. It’s during these times of transition that I’ve realized the wisdom of acceptance and adaptability.
Life’s changes are as inevitable as the shifting seasons. What was once fulfilling might no longer serve us, and we have little control over these transformations. The key is to flow with these changes rather than resist them. The act of adaptation is an art—a dance between accepting what is and finding silver linings in the midst of challenges.
While we can’t dictate life’s twists, we have agency in how we respond to them. It’s not about expecting perfection or chasing elusive ideals. It’s about recognizing the pros and cons in every circumstance and focusing on the positives. Change is not our adversary—it’s our ally in growth. When we let go of the need for certainty, when we embrace the uncertainty and dance with it, we open the doors to true happiness.
In a world where the only constant is change, our ability to adapt becomes a measure of our resilience and well-being. The seasons of life come and go, and it’s in embracing this fluidity that we truly thrive. Every moment is an opportunity, whether we’re navigating tough times or celebrating successes. It’s in the acceptance of life’s ever-changing nature that we find our greatest strength and happiness.
