Writers 
Life is constantly changing. As we reflect on what we've learned and what we've accomplished from where we were to where we are now, we discover how far we've come and how much we have learned that didn't change. As time goes by, our environment, our relationships, our responsibilities, our dreams and even our understanding of life change. However, there are some things that go to the core of our being that do not change.
In those days life might have been easier. We had other concerns and were less responsible. One of the things which we used to dream about was what we thought the future was going to be. There are hours to be spent playing and laughing, and things to be enjoyed without any thought to the future. Little or nothing often brought happiness.
At this point, it could seem as if life is more complicated. Things have changed, and our choices about what to do can have a major impact on our future. We have responsibilities to fulfill related to our work, education, finances, relationships and personal goals. Technology has also revolutionized the way we communicate, learn, work and entertain ourselves. A world once seemed far away can now be accessed by way of a smartphone.
Yet, many of these changes have not occurred, and some things remain unchanged.
The need to be loved, respected and valued is still a part of the human experience. There is still a need for meaningful relationships and real friendships. We are still searching for happiness, peace, security, and a sense of purpose. Tools are different; needs, not.
We may also have changed our dreams in form, but the desire to improve is still there. Maybe the child who wanted to be successful is now an adult who wants to go into a career, start a business, have a family, or to have something in his life he can be proud of. The dream may have changed but the dream to do something good remains alive.
Another dimension in which change is apparent is in relationships. Friends and acquaintances we were once close to may no longer be a part of our lives. There may be new people in our lives and others who have been with us throughout the seasons. The passage of time shows who remains, who moves away and who remains with us regardless of the changes.
Then and now also gives us the reminder that growth doesn't always mean changing to be a different person. Sometimes growth is the result of becoming an older version of ourselves. Happily dreaming may help lead to happy goals in the present. Our past can be lessons from which we learn our decisions today.
Looking back ought not to be a desire to go back. Rather, it should help us to understand how much we have progressed. Each season is for a reason. Triumphs, tribulations, failures, and successes of the past have made us who we are.
There may be a difference between then and now but there is a connection. Life required growth and there were things that changed, and other things that stayed the same because they were who we are. The most important thing to learn is to accept change, but not ourselves.
Yesterday, we were given some memories. Today is an opportunity day! Hope is in the future! It's not just about the change, it's about the things that we have learned throughout the process.