“People just don’t like change.” How many times have you heard that statement? With the public outcry against Mayo’s proposal to take services away from our hospital, I am again hearing that people just don’t like change. People often do like change and strive for it. A statement to the contrary is condescending and de-legitimatizes people’s real concerns.

Change can be exciting, fulfilling and provide a sense of accomplishment or pride. People seek change in their lives and work very hard for it. I have never heard it said that “people just don’t like change” when someone gets a promotion, remodels their home or loses weight.

People appreciate change that they see as a benefit to their family or their community. I haven’t heard anyone complain about, let alone create a group, to stop any of the following changes in our community: splash pad, Thursdays on Fountain, the new strip mall, construction on Bridge or voluntary pre-K. On the contrary, different people and groups worked hard to make these changes a reality. People strive for change they believe in.

Yes, sometimes people don’t like change, but it’s not because they think change is inherently bad or they are fearful of it. The truth of the matter is, people dislike change when they don’t believe or agree with the reasons given or they believe that the change will hurt their family or community.

I, for one, disagree with Mayo’s rationale for taking away our services, and I believe that the change will hurt the community. Mayo is a nonprofit that provides health care. I believe that money should not come before patient care. The community will be hurt by the removal of these services and the loss of jobs.

I appreciate everyone who works hard to make positive change in our community, as well as those who fight against change they feel will harm our community. To those who are considering getting involved, what are you waiting for? Get involved. Take a stand. Make a change. Or work to prevent one.

Angie Hanson

Albert Lea