Changes . . . here comes my train

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I’ve always loved David Bowie’s song “Changes” and its take that change is uncertain, sometimes regretful, but ultimately an inevitable part of growth. But when I heard Seu Jorge’s interpretation, recorded for The Life Aquatic, I knew I’d found my favorite version. In part, I’m a sucker for Brazilian music, and I was instantly taken by the rhythms and the alluring sound of Portuguese. But now that I’ve seen the translation, I’m even more certain. Jorge sees change as a positive, if not uplifting, step toward freedom and his destiny. He suggests that change is not about turning to “face the strain,” as Bowie says. Instead, change is the “train” we must board to take us to a destination that is “sublime.” Poetry!

I’m not one to feel sorry about how things have passed
Time to leave, my time is up
Lots to still discover
Really sorry but gotta go
I’m on my way because nothing is left for me here
The show has ended
And don’t feel hurt because my time has come
That’s just the way I am

Changes… here comes my train
comes my train
I’m on my way and I’ll be ok
Changes… here comes my train
comes my train
I know it’s the right time and I’ll be alright
Moving forward, never looking back

It’s really no big deal; I’ll go have some fun
As much as life lets me
Time to wander; meet some good people if I need, give a hand
I see freedom on the horizon
You don’t really get it
New York, Ipanema and Hong Kong
That’s the wave I’m on

I feel free, sublime
People here and there
The blue seas and sky

Erik Van Slyke

Building Organizational Capacity to Lead Change