This issue of PASSAGES is committed to CHANGE. Passages has embarked on several new beginnings! We are now converting our newsletter into the e-newsletter format. We work hard at designing and sculpting our newsletter and website to make it easier to view and more informative for our members, patrons and well-wishers. Our goal is to make the site more interactive so we can connect and reach out to friends around the world. Are we ready for this change given to us by technology?

Through the years we at Passages have expanded and included our areas of activity and the scope of our work. I, for one believe that I have grown and evolved as a person through my association with Passages projects and persons associated with the process. My sincere wish and goal is that you have benefited from your participation If so, my intention for creating an association of the nature of PASSAGES has been realized.

Often, we can't stop the cycles of change. We react to change with fear, rather than as a friend or opportunity to learn.

I believe it is not the change itself we fear, but the fear that we will have to adapt our rigid sense of self to a new set of circumstances. We lock ourselves into an identity that defines us-married, single; old, young-and any change that threatens that identity is viewed with unrest and fear. Change can also make us feel out of control, helpless, and almost chaotic! Every event in life has two possible effects, either what happens is positive, or it is bringing up something you need to learn in order to create something positive.

The only thing in life we can consistently count on is change. Transitions are a part of life! If you are experiencing the ending of one chapter, allow yourself to feel the emotions of loss and rebirth. Often we get engrossed and diverted into a whirlwind of activity which blocks out the true emotions. A bud gives way to a new flower, which transforms into the fruit, which gives rise to a seed, which yields a new sprout. Whether you are transitioning through a stage of life such as watching your children leave the nest or entering into menopause, loss of parental support, or any situation that requires you to maintain your balance, take it as an opportunity to commence or deepen your spiritual practice and commitment to your well-being. Keep smiling through it all- kaya shewakramani