Are we really ready to change and grow?

I just read an introspective article by Dr. Alex Pattakos, author of the book “Prisoners of Our Thoughts” (www.prisonersofourthoughts.com). The article focuses on correspondence he had with actual prisoners, people locked away for years – or even life – in actual prisons.

”What is common and revealing in these quotations is that, even though they are facing a formidable challenge in life that none of us would ever like to endure, both inmates are able and willing to explore the meaning of their respective lives' moments, including those "moments" that are not so pleasant and may actually be extremely painful for them. Moreover, the inmates are demonstrating their willingness to own up to their own lives by discovering the meaning of any given moment, including those that came during their imprisonment. They are assuming responsibility for weaving their unique tapestry of existence, that is, what is their own life.

“Now let me ask you: if inmates in a real prison are able and willing to search for meaning in their lives, as well as exploring ways to change and grow, are you? Remember, we don't really create meaning; we find it. And we can't find it unless we look for it. Although we are not always aware of it, meaning is present in every moment, even in what may be viewed as the darkest hours of our lives.”