Becoming Whole: The Courage to Change

Over the past several weeks, we’ve been exploring what it looks like to journey toward becoming whole: what counseling is and isn’t, why healing is often the first step, and the power of naming our pain and honoring the process of growth. We’ve explored how connection changes everything and what happens when we’re truly seen and known. Each step has reminded us that transformation isn’t a quick process—it’s a journey, one that takes time, courage, and community.

Wrapping up this series gives us the chance to bring everything we’ve explored together and look at the heart of what wholeness really is.

The Longing for Peace

We all crave a life where we feel safe and at peace—grounded, secure, and truly connected to the people around us. Yet our efforts to find that peace sometimes take us down painful paths—through unhealthy relationships, addiction, isolation, or endless striving. We chase a sense of security or comfort, often without realizing we’re depriving ourselves of the very things we most need to grow: connection, grace, and healing.

Shalom is a Hebrew word that’s often translated as “peace,” but it means so much more than a calm feeling or the absence of conflict. It’s about wholeness—life in harmony with God, ourselves, and others. And even if you’re not coming from a faith background, this truth still rings true. Research continues to affirm what Scripture has said all along: forgiveness, emotional healing, and meaningful relationships are deeply connected to our overall health and well-being. When we take steps toward healing—whether through counseling, community, or spiritual growth—we move closer to the life we were designed for: one marked by connection, safety, belonging, and flourishing.

Wholeness is about experiencing shalom: deep peace with God, yourself, and others.

The Courage to Change

Becoming whole doesn’t happen overnight. It requires courage—the courage to look honestly at our pain, to face patterns we’ve carried for years, and to take steps toward what feels unfamiliar or even scary. Sometimes change feels like shedding an old skin: saying goodbye to familiar ways of thinking or behaving and embracing a new way of life that will take time to feel natural.

Research on change shows that transformation often unfolds in stages. We start by recognizing something isn’t working, imagining what life could look like, preparing ourselves, and then taking that first brave step forward. When the stakes are high, or when habits and wounds run deep, this process can feel slow and even painful—but that’s just one part of growth.

We were also not meant to do this life alone. Healthy relationships, safe communities, and the guidance of others can provide the encouragement we need to keep going. This is where counseling and faith intersect: both remind us that we were created for connection, and that healing happens best when we’re known and supported.

A Lifelong Journey

Perfection is not the goal—peace is. Wholeness isn’t about becoming flawless; it’s about learning to be honest, grounded, and at rest with ourselves and others. It’s a lifelong journey of growth, shaped day by day through self-awareness, healthy relationships, and healing experiences.

As you reflect on this series, consider what the pursuit of healing, true peace, and wholeness might look like in your own life. Change begins with small, courageous steps: recognizing when life isn’t working, reaching out for help, opening up to someone you trust, bringing yourself honestly before God, or simply daring to believe that healing is possible. Every step you take matters.

For those who follow Christ—or are curious about faith—this journey is also deeply spiritual: an invitation to let God’s love meet you right where you are and gently lead you into a life of connection, safety, and grace. Whether through faith in Christ, counseling, or supportive community, the work of healing and growth is always worth it!

Stay Connected

If you’d like to follow along with New Hope’s work, we invite you to connect with us on social media or subscribe to our email newsletter, The Common Thread. We’ll be sharing regular updates as we continue this journey together.

💙 Join us for Taste of New Hope!

On Thursday, October 2nd from 5–8 PM at Providence Church, enjoy food from local restaurants, a silent auction, and a live auction at 7 PM—all benefiting New Hope’s Counseling Center. Proceeds make counseling more accessible for individuals and families in our community. For more information, visit: Taste of New Hope 2025 | New Hope Community Life Ministry — New Hope Community Life Ministry

🎟 Tickets: $20/person or $60/family
👉 Reserve your spot today »

By Sheila Derr, Executive Director, New Hope Community Life Ministry