What a mixed bag. They’re often chosen, welcomed, and invigorating, but not always. They can represent the end of a season or the acceptance of a new reality. Some transitions are planned; others are imposed.

Since we’re always transitioning from one thing to another, it’s helpful to consider not just the inevitability of change, but our own agency in shaping it. Today we are here, thinking this, involved in that, enjoying or enduring the present. Tomorrow we can look back with the wisdom of perspective and consider what we’d do if we could do today over again.

The best way to begin each week is to wisely inform the future by honestly considering the present. If I had today to do over again, which outcome would I invest in, what decision would I make, how would I have influenced that conversation, invested in this person, used my time, and so on.

Transitions can be inspiring or fatiguing, but taken together they reveal a story. Since the best stories employ meaningful relationships and outcomes, it’s best to invest in both during every chapter.

Most important, of course, is to carry on a constant conversation with the author of our stories. He understands who we are and where our transitions will take us. It’s OK to ask Him for directions.