Change. The word itself invigorates, inspires hope, brings fluttering heartbeats, and makes the faint-hearted folks flee.I’d like to think I’m strong. Up to the challenge. Willing, and excited to embrace the concept of change. Ready to grab that growth mind-set and take on the world!

But hey–in all the mumbo-jumbo about the beauty of grit–nobody mentioned that pursuing real change can feel like hugging a porcupine. That trying to change systems or habits can resemble drowning while locked in a swirling washer. That change, in theory, is beautiful, but that change in reality is charged with adrenaline, fear, bruises, and maybe even a few tears.

I think to enact authentic change, an individual or institution must have the courage to move mountains, the willingness to challenge stagnant ways, and the audacity to think that it can be done. Being a change agent necessitates putting on the full armor of God, praying for the patience and wisdom of the saints, and planning on the battle of the century. Because honestly, people hate to change. They prefer the comfort of their crappy situation over the fear of the unknown.

If you’re ever challenged to change something in your own life or your own business or your own school system, think about it. Are you resistant because you are arrogant? Are you against the change because it may require you to rethink your ways? Does change make you freak out because you fear that things could get worse than they already are?

I encourage every person, when faced with either a suggested change (or presented with the opportunity to create change), to at least stop and think logically. Refuse to react emotionally in the moment. Listen well, ask good questions, and investigate possibilities. Collaborate with others, enlist your fellow change-agents, and then, do what needs to be done. Even if it’s different. Even if it’s shocking. After all, beautiful roses aren’t always red.