Think of a seed breaking free from its shell to reach the sunlight. It doesn’t linger on the dark soil it left behind; instead, it uses that energy to grow and reach for the sky, becoming a towering tree. Embracing change is about doing just that—pouring our energy into new possibilities instead of staying stuck in what’s behind us.

Holding on to the past only keeps us tied down to what no longer serves us. It can stall our growth and blind us to the potential of the present. By turning inward and nurturing seeds of positivity, love, and acceptance, we start building something new. This practice can grow into a beautiful garden of mindfulness, compassion, and gratitude.

Building the new doesn’t mean ignoring the past. Every experience, whether joyful or tough, shapes us and brings valuable lessons—lessons in resilience, strength, and the ability to adapt. When we acknowledge our past, we can use that wisdom to make choices that help us plant seeds of positive change in the here and now.

So, how do we start this journey? By embracing the present moment. Practice mindfulness, pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, words, and actions. With this awareness, you can start choosing your responses thoughtfully, moving away from resistance and toward acceptance.

Another key is gratitude. Appreciate the lessons of the past and the blessings in your life right now. Gratitude opens our hearts, letting love and positivity flow. It’s the foundation of a future full of joy and fulfillment.

Change isn’t about fighting what was; it’s about building what’s next. By choosing to nurture the seeds of growth, we open ourselves up to endless possibilities. Embracing change, with a heart open to whatever comes, creates space for a brighter, more meaningful path forward.

Each year, June 15 – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) – promotes awareness about elder neglect and abuse.

In the United States, an estimated 1 in 10 adults over the age of 60 experience some form of abuse each year.

Nearly 80% of Social Security beneficiaries are 65 and older, and we want to do what we can to protect them.

Here are 5 ways to help prevent your loved ones and other older adults from becoming victims of abuse:

Learn the signs. Be on the lookout for physical and emotional abuse, as well as signs of financial abuse, neglect, or abandonment. You’ll find more information here.

Prevent isolation. Call or visit your loved ones and check on them regularly. Ask them how they’re doing and if they’re getting the care they need. People who are isolated are more likely to be abused.

Provide information. Make your loved ones aware of resources like community centers, law enforcement agencies, and advocacy organizations that they can turn to if they need help.

Be a friend. Commit to visiting an older person in your community and be a lifeline, if they need one.

Spread the message. Contact local media outlets and neighborhood programs and encourage them to participate in World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

We are all responsible for ensuring that everyone can age with dignity and live without fear of abuse.

In underserved and tribal communities, which may not have outreach programs, you can be the link between older adults and the resources they need.

For more information on elder abuse prevention, visit www.ncea.acl.gov or call 855-500-3537 (ELDR). Share this message on social media, with friends, family, and local organizations.