Transitions

The last few weeks have been eventful. My trip to India has been postponed to a date that I cannot make in April. As this was the third change of date I have decided to withdraw from the challenge completely. This has been such a disappointment as I was really looking forward to going to India and working with Vasavya Mahila Mandali.

The time that has lapsed between my last blog and now has helped me to get used to the fact that I will not be going to India or working with VMM. All the things that I had envisioned that will happen will now never materialise.

For me this was a sort of transition, going through the emotions of shock (this can’t be happening to me), anger (why does this have to happen, who can I blame, hold to account?), depression (realisation that the vision will not happen), acknowledging that what will be, will be and finally acceptance of the situation.

Some of you reading this will recognise the work of Elizabeth Kubler Ross above in helping people to understand the emotional responses and feelings to change.  

One cannot write about change and transition without mentioning William Bridges. ‘Letting go’ and acknowledging what is and what will be lost is part of the process. Going through that period of time, when I wasn’t sure of what to do (should I go later in the year, should I go with another organisation?…) and emerging with a new beginning, a new sense of direction, purpose and energy ( I am going to focus my energies on my Oxfam Challenge and look at taking up an overseas challenge / trip next year). 

Part of my fundraising and raising awareness of VMM was to organise and host a quiz which I did last Saturday. The money that was raised will now be going towards the Oxfam Trailtrekker Challenge that I am undertaking in June. The target is to raise £2100.  

When  experiencing a change or a transition, we are often not aware of the emotions and feelings that we are going through. Understanding and being aware of them can help us to deal with such situations more effectively.