A long, long, time ago, I dated this guy who was hilarious. Really. He even did stand up comedy once. Not only was he funny, but his friends were, too. I still think about some of the things they said and giggle to myself.
They were particularly fond of mocking newscasts and sports announcers. I remember an event where an interviewee said their team would go to a bowl game because they were the very best team ever. That the team was exceptional because they were able to change and wasn't that just the best because, as everyone knows, people love change.
My boyfriend and his roommate used to quote this guy all the time saying the team was going to the "hyperbowl-e" (for hyperbole and bowl put together). We would all laugh about how people really hate change in general and for this guy to say differently was ridiculous.
I've been thinking about this, in light of the election, about how people are so resistant to change by nature. And yet, in order to hope for better things, one must embrace change and actually encourage it. It is interesting how large changes can seem so uplifting, but small ones, the kind that hit close to home, are incredibly difficult. But those little changes can make you feel like a whole new person, even if they take a bit of getting used to.
Matt was busy today starting a large painting project. We need to paint over the new dry wall where the contractor repaired the fall out from the shower disaster. Since we have to do this, we decided to change the color of the family room from sage green to a dark red-ish rust color.
He got started by finishing the downstairs bathroom first. Part of the original painting we did 4 years ago and never completed. The bathroom is a lovely deep plum color which Matt and I both really like. Our kids? Not so much.
In fact, they both freaked right out saying they not only don't like the color but it makes them feel as if they aren't at their own house. We know they will get used to it. But this is just the little half bath. What will they do when the whole family room is red?
Oh, yeah, people love change. They sure do. As long as it isn't in their house.
What?? You're painting the house w/out consulting me first?!
Posted by: Laura | November 17, 2008 at 01:46 PM
I can just see it happening in my house house...My three year old was very mad, when we painted the master bedroom the other day. You would have thought we had painted his room, he was so offended by the change. He seems to have survived, though...as will we all.
Posted by: InTheFastLane | November 17, 2008 at 11:15 AM
That really is true. I think also, once things are so broken you kind of doubt they are even fixable anymore...then change becomes a valid option.
Posted by: Kyla | November 17, 2008 at 09:29 AM
Classic. You'll have to let us know when they finally use the plum bathroom!
Posted by: Jordan | November 16, 2008 at 08:09 PM
And by the time they adjust to the new colors it will be time to repaint again!
Posted by: floating in space | November 16, 2008 at 08:55 AM
This makes me chuckle. Such simple but universal truth in it. Yes, I love change...someone else's! LOL
Posted by: Niksmom | November 16, 2008 at 08:41 AM