I never intended to write a series of articles about what has happened to me, but writing is largely personal therapy.  So, this exercise has been helpful.  I have already considered changes in my political and cultural perspectives. In this post, I will consider the personal and psychological changes that have happened in the last few years.

I used to be bound by responsibilities forced upon me because of my occupation.
Now, I choose my responsibilities.

I used to give my family whatever time my church and civic involvement schedule could afford.
Now, I prioritize times with family.

I used to be worried about what people thought about me and my family.
Now, I try to be who I am and let others do the same.

I used to have my course in life figured out.
Now, I have had to forge a whole new focus for my life that is true to my identity.

I used to have a very strong and specific sense of calling.
Now, I still do, and it is the same in general terms, but different, in specific terms.

I used to try to manage my image, including my language and displays of emotion.
Now, I am more real with people.

I used to love a way of doing church.
Now I love the church.

I used to mentally categorize people.
Now, I probably still do, but try to accept them and find ways to love them.

I used to do more things out of shear obligation and expectation.
Now, I do more things because of positive inner motivation.

I used to worry about change and conflict.
Now, I understand them to be a part of life and try to take them in stride.

I used to think of sin as the ultimate failure.
Now, I think of not accepting grace and love as the ultimate failure.