Exercise that Right to Change

Exercising My Right to Change

I often wondered about the purpose of all that I was doing. I had to make a choice. It was only when I exercised my right to choose that I was also able to exercise my right to change.

A New Year, A Time of Reflection

The dawn of a new year—or even the eve of it—is often a time for many of us to plan, review, and resolve. We set goals, undo old habits, and initiate changes in our lives and sometimes in the lives of others.

Looking back at my own life, I marvel at how I have been taken from what I thought I would be to what I am today. The change I experienced was neither foreseen nor planned—and yet, it happened.

Dreams and Early Career

Like many, I dreamt of doing well in life: a good job, financial security, a happy family, and a peaceful life. I studied hard, completed my Masters, and secured a position in a good firm.

After marriage, I moved to Mumbai with my husband. Both of us were highly task-oriented and work-driven. Meeting deadlines, debugging programs, and managing projects gave us great satisfaction. Our home life was filled with long work hours, frequent illnesses of our young daughter, and constant pressure—yet we felt content.

That was until I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

Struggles and Setbacks

We moved to Bangalore, where my parents lived, so I could have help. Life became busier—work, health struggles, children, school, church, friends—all demanding my time.

Then came a turning point. My husband met with an accident that caused a head injury, forcing him to resign from his demanding marketing job. We decided to start our own business, and the financial pressures increased. I pushed myself harder at work, determined to keep my job and contribute.

I excelled at work, won awards, and was appreciated for my contributions. But at home, I was a different person—irritable, impatient, and often angry. My children, especially my teenage daughter, bore the brunt of my frustrations. My health worsened with arthritis, wheezing, and high blood pressure. Prayer, once part of my daily life, had taken a back seat.

Then, one morning, I noticed blood in my sputum. Tests suggested possible tuberculosis, and I came crashing down.

Breaking Point and Surrender

At that moment, I wondered—what was the purpose of all this? I was earning well, but I had no time for family, no time for myself, and no real peace. It was a rat race.

My husband and I fell to our knees in prayer, seeking God’s forgiveness and healing. We realized we needed a change. When the confirmatory reports came, it turned out to be a wrong diagnosis—the blood was due to lung infection and wheezing. Relief washed over me, but the inner voice kept pressing: I needed to change my lifestyle.

But how could I? What about finances, especially when our business hadn’t yet reached breakeven? Yet, whenever I prayed, the conviction grew stronger.

Choosing Change

One day, in prayer, I felt an assurance of God’s provision. I also sensed a deep need to be spiritually nourished. With fear and reluctance, I resigned from my job and joined Urban India Ministries, an organization focused on strengthening family relationships.

The decision came with uncertainty, fear, and warnings from well-meaning friends. But I knew I had to obey.

Initially, I worked with teens, addressing their struggles and guiding them with values. This experience helped me understand my own daughter better—a blessing right when I needed it most.

A Confirmation

Almost three and a half years later, while preparing my daughter for her board exams, I received a call from a former client. They wanted me back as a consultant for a new project phase, offering a large sum. I was thrilled by the recognition, but before I could respond, my daughter—who had overheard—pleaded, “Mama, pleeease don’t go back…”

That was the confirmation I needed. My children valued the change more than the money. I knew then that I had made the right choice.

The Fruit of Change

Seven years later, I see no loss compared to what I might have achieved otherwise. In fact, I’ve gained much more:

• My children studied in the best institutions.

• We enjoyed family outings and holidays.

• My health improved significantly.

• I had the joy and energy to raise a happy family.

• I was able to encourage others at their crossroads.

One friend, struggling with a career change, told me: “Your decision has inspired me and given me the courage to make my change.”

Looking Back with Gratitude

I have enjoyed both phases of my work life, but moving away from the first was necessary. It wasn’t helping me or my family. Choosing the unknown was difficult, but it was the best decision I ever made.

It was only when I exercised my right to choose that I was able to exercise my right to change. That choice not only transformed me but also influenced my family, friends, and others along the way.

And it was worth it.

About the Author
Elizabeth Johnson serves with Urban India Ministries, focusing on family relationships and faith-based counseling. She draws from her personal experiences to guide and encourage others in their walk with God.