Sometimes change is pleasant. A child is born. A new career begins. A goal is accomplished. At other times, a difficult transition brings tough but necessary growing pains.

As we saw on September 11, 2001, change can also be tragic, devastating, and senseless. Yet we slowly heal without forgetting the special people lost or the value they brought to our lives.

In his book, "Transitions: Making Sense of Life's Changes", William Bridges pointed out that the outer forms of one's life can change instantly. Yet our inner reorienting to important relationships and activities is a process that requires time.

When going through life's inevitable changes, we need to be compassionate with ourselves. The inner self may need to adjust or heal. Self-care is a vital part of making transitions.

William Bridges also suggested that transitions begin with endings, and that we must "let go of the old thing before we can pick up the newnot just outwardly, but inwardly, where we keep our connections to the people and places that act as definitions of who we are."

However, Stephen Covey wisely said, "People can't live with change if there's not a changeless core inside them. The key to the ability to change is a changeless sense of who you are, what you are about, and what you value."

Deep, changeless connections with special people do not fade when outer forms change, nor should they. Part of that essential inner self-care involves remembering those very loving people who will always inspire us with their values and courage.

Although we will heal from losses and survive tough transitions, it is important to keep and savor the spiritual gifts that others have given to us.

Through the changing times and seasons of life, our golden relationships are not lost. They are there to help guide us. Remember to hold on to those changeless connections that will always be a valuable, inspiring part of your life. They are as close as a thought.