3 Stages of Change According to Kabbalah
These stages can transform us into stronger, more resilient individuals when embraced and understood. Surprisingly, this idea is hinted at in the Biblical story of Jacob with the three types of sheep.
Change is an inevitable part of life, and these transitions mark our journey through it. While many of us tend to focus on the excitement of new beginnings, wisdom teaches that it's essential to recognize the significance of the crucial stages that shape every transition.
In his book "Transitions," author William Bridges points to (3) stages¹; 1) the end, 2) the middle period, and 3) the new beginning.
These stages can transform us into stronger, more resilient individuals when embraced and understood. Perhaps a surprise for some, this idea is hinted at in the Biblical story of Jacob with the three types of sheep.
We will look at this dimension shortly, but first, let's understand these stages a little more.
1. The End: Closure and Reflection
If you look back on milestone events in your life, you may realize that every transition began with some sort of ending. Whether it's the end of a relationship, a job, a chapter of life, or even a mindset, an unexpected ending can send you spinning, perhaps disrupting your routine and sense of stability.
On the positive side, endings allow us to acknowledge our achievements, confront our challenges, and bid farewell to all that no longer serve us. Though often accompanied by feelings of sadness or uncertainty, this stage is crucial for personal development and metamorphosis.
Embracing the end involves accepting impermanence and finding meaning in closure. It's a chance to make peace with the past, gain closure, and lay the groundwork for what's to come. In this, we make room for new opportunities.
We empty the proverbial vessel, in kabbalistic language, making room for something better.
2. The Middle: Navigating Transition
It goes without saying that the middle period is the bridge between the old and the new. How we respond to this stage significantly affects how much we prepare ourselves for the next stage. This is important.
Some people try to reclaim what they lost, seeking a path back to the old. Others, perceiving this stage as standing in the way of a new beginning, seek to get past this phase as quickly as possible. We will see that both of these can be problematic in the long run.
