According to Google and dictionary.com, transition is:

noun /tranˈziSHən/  /-ˈsiSHən/ 
* The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
* A passage in a piece of writing that smoothly connects two topics or sections to each other
* A change of an atom, nucleus, electron, etc., from one quantum state to another, with emission or absorption of radiation

And just for the record, transition is also a stage of labor – one when mothers are often just about ready to throw in the towel and refuse to take any more… “This baby either comes out, or it stays in, but I’m not having any part in it!” Often accompanied by, uh, shall we say, strong words.

We may not use strong words to describe our transitions, so we think that’s good. The thing is, we still have strong thoughts. When something is changing, we can feel unsettled, uncomfortable, disconnected. We may feel like we’re floundering, or in limbo. All these feelings are fine, worthy of acknowledgment, and – here it comes – normal.

As nature transitions from Autumn to Winter in the northern hemisphere where I live, I’m realizing how I, and you, can use this transitional time to our advantage.

Transition is “The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.” That means it will pass. If you feel unsettled or uncomfortable, like you don’t know what’s coming next, remember that it’s just a phase.

This could comfort you, or bring up anger. If transition makes you angry, that’s ok. Anger is not wrong; it’s a valid feeling and should never be suppressed. Acknowledge to yourself, “I feel angry!” And let yourself feel that way. You may consider using ZPoint or another meditation or breathing technique to help you find a better feeling when you’re ready.

The key is to feel better when you’re truly ready: not when you think you should, and especially not when anyone else thinks you should! This is your time.

Transition is “A passage in a piece of writing that smoothly connects two topics or sections to each other.” Do you feel smoothly connected? Probably not – but you can.

Think of how nature moves in cycles. The wheel turns through each season, each year. The moon goes from new to full and back again. The sun rises and sets.

Yet, no matter what we see, there’s always another side. When we see the dark moon, someone else sees the light face. When the sun has set for you, it’s rising for someone else. When it’s Winter in your environment, somewhere else it is Summer.

Consider that we are all connected, as much as all nature is connected. If you’re looking for the smooth connection that transition claims in writing, try to look on the smooth side. Even if you can’t see smoothness in your own life right now, entertaining the possibility that smoothness exists will help. Somewhere, someone feels smoothly connected through a transition. If you can believe that, you can more easily accept that smoothness for yourself.

The third definition is the most interesting. Transition is “* A change of an atom, nucleus, electron, etc., from one quantum state to another, with emission or absorption of radiation.” I won’t speak to the radiation aspect, but there is spiritual truth here.

Let’s say transition is the change of something from one quantum state to another. Quantum particles are tiny and can’t be seen by human eyes alone. So maybe the result of a transition in your life can’t be seen either. It could be an emotional transition, where you become stronger, more confident, more ready to receive love, etc. It could be spiritual, as you realize your inner power. Transitions can be mental as well. Though eventually they reep physical results, initially the change is within, on a seemingly quantum or tiny level.

Quantum particles must change in order to change the big picture. In order to see a different color chair, quantum particles must be in different orders than they were when we saw a blue chair, for instance. In the same way, as we change inwardly, as our spiritual particles re-align, the outward picture changes.

Transition is natural; change is inevitable. To ride the wave of transition smoothly, it’s important to consciously re-connect with our roots. Connect with nature; spend time in meditation or prayer. Talk and listen to God, or God-within. Everything you need to navigate this transition is already there. Ask for it, even if you don’t know what exactly you need.

Use affirmations: I ask for and receive all I need for a smooth transition. I ride the wave of transition, knowing the tide of life works for my good.