The Beauty of Change and All That Comes With It

by Aminah Darden

Let’s talk about something that most people don’t really like to discuss: change and transition. Lately, I’ve been sighing and venting nonstop about how much moving SUCKS. And every time I do, I keep getting the same responses: “Yeah, it really does” or “Tell me about it.” And I can’t help but wonder—how does everyone seem to know this struggle so well? Why has literally everyone I’ve talked to moved so much? It’s because change is a constant in life, and it never really stops.

No matter how old I am now or how old I’ll be in the future, I’m always going to experience change—it’s just inevitable. Normally, I’m the type to get excited about change, thinking, “Ooh, this is great for the plot!” I usually believe that my life is about to get more exciting… but for some reason, not this time. Lately, I’ve been hyper-aware of every little change happening in my life, and honestly, it’s starting to feel a bit unsettling. I think what it really boils down to is the fear of the unknown.

There’s a new apartment that definitely won’t be my last, a new semester to tackle, and a shift in my work life—all happening at once. But even though it feels overwhelming, I’ve realized how lucky I am to have my friends, family, and the Harvest community by my side, helping me navigate these changes. Whether it’s a big move or just a small shift in my routine, leaning on my community has made all the difference.

I’m surrounded by amazing people who’ve been in my shoes and are here to help guide me through these transitions. My cousins have all been through college and moved into their “big girl” apartments, my friends are relocating to new cities, and even Joan Stevens, a fellow Harvest member, moved around the same time as me! Knowing that others have faced similar challenges—and hearing how they’ve handled them—makes change feel a whole lot less daunting.

Life is full of constant change—big and small—and none of us should have to face it alone. I’m constantly evolving, constantly learning, and so is everyone else around me. The examples being set and the advice from those close to me have turned my glass half full into a glass that’s overflowing. Transition is still great for the plot, and it’s still awesome for personal growth. But the key to making it through? Surrounding yourself with a supportive community that helps you navigate the ups and downs. With the right people by your side, even the most uncomfortable changes become easier to handle.

❤️ Aminah