Twyla Tharp: 'The only thing I fear more than change is no change. The business of being static makes me nuts.'

The only thing I fear more than change is no change. The business of being static makes me nuts.

In her famous quote, Twyla Tharp captures the essence of human nature and the perpetual conflict between embracing change and clinging to stability. She states, "The only thing I fear more than change is no change. The business of being static makes me nuts." At first glance, this quote seems straightforward. Tharp is expressing her fear of stagnation and the negative impact it can have on one's life. However, beneath the surface, this quote holds a profound philosophical concept - the duality of change and stability, and our inherent need for both.Change is an inevitable part of life. It propels us forward, pushing us out of our comfort zones and encouraging personal growth. Without change, life becomes monotonous and stagnant, devoid of the excitement and novelty that drive us. Tharp's fear of "no change" stems from an understanding that remaining static prevents us from tapping into our full potential. It restricts our ability to explore new horizons, learn from our experiences, and evolve as individuals. Change, therefore, becomes an essential catalyst for progress and self-discovery.On the other hand, stability offers a sense of security and familiarity. It provides a solid foundation upon which we can build our lives. Without a stable base, constant change can be overwhelming, leading to chaos and confusion. Stability allows us to establish routines, cultivate relationships, and refine our skills. It provides a sense of belonging and a framework within which we can navigate the unpredictability of life.The paradox arises when we recognize that too much stability can lead to complacency, inhibiting our personal and professional growth. The fear of change often stems from the comfort and security provided by stability. We become attached to our routines, fearing the unknown and the potential risks that change may bring. However, Tharp's perspective challenges us to reconsider our resistance to change. She confronts the notion that remaining static, no matter how secure and predictable it may seem, ultimately hinders our ability to flourish.To better understand this dynamic, let's take a philosophical detour and explore the concept of yin and yang. Yin represents the feminine, receptive, and stable aspects, while yang embodies the masculine, active, and changing elements. Together, they form a harmonious balance - a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. Similarly, change and stability rely on each other for equilibrium and growth.In this philosophical context, we can view change as the yang aspect, constantly expanding, exploring, and propelling us forward. It represents the unknown, the new experiences, and the challenges that push us beyond our limits. Conversely, stability assumes the yin role, grounding us, providing structure, and offering the necessary foundation to absorb and integrate the changes we encounter.Just like yin and yang, change and stability are interdependent. They are not opposing forces to be feared or rejected, but rather complementary aspects that create harmony when embraced together. Tharp's quote reminds us that change is essential, but so too is stability. It encourages us to recognize the importance of a dynamic equilibrium rather than favoring one extreme over the other.In conclusion, Twyla Tharp's quote encapsulates the human experience and the eternal struggle between change and stability. While change pushes us to grow and evolve, stability provides the necessary balance and framework for our lives. The fear of stagnation and the pursuit of progress go hand in hand, much like the concept of yin and yang. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of change and stability, we can learn to navigate the complexities of life, embracing both the excitement of new possibilities and the comfort of a solid foundation. So, let us shed our fear of change and embrace the dance between the ever-changing and the beautifully constant.