I could see the problem.  Actually, to be honest, I could smell it.  Seeping from my oldest son’s tomb-like room. 

As if, yes, there might be a corpse inside.  I stood at the threshold of the doorway and peered in.  He lay, a lump under his sheets, the floor of his room riddled with the debris of his teenage boy existence – old pop cans, bowls of hardened ice cream, decaying socks, his grimy attire for the last week.  All of marinating in the brew of young manhood filth. 

 He needed to clean his room. 

I flicked on the light (hey, it was 9am. )  “I think your room needs some attention.” 

Somewhere beneath the covers, he grunted. 

“Seriously, I can’t see your floor.” 

“It’s there, or you’d be falling through to the center of the earth.”

Oh, so cute.  Ha ha.   

“If you ever want to eat again, I’ll see the floor of your room by dinnertime.”

“I have to work, I won’t be home for dinner.”

I flicked off the light.  Closed the door.  Apparently, my external forces were no longer effective.  I had to face the truth. 

Change had to come from the inside. And only when he recognize the need.

 See, a character isn’t going to change unless properly motivated.  They might see a glimmer of Hope, and even be invited by circumstances to change, but without seeing the need they won’t have the strength to tackle the challenges (or, in my son’s case, the smells). 

 The invitation to change, whether they accept it or not, needs to be followed, in short order, by, the NEED to change. 

 Remember the scene in LOTR when Frodo and gang are hiding in the woods as the creepy Nasgould’s horses are looking for them?  Suddenly, for the first time, Frodo realizes he danger they are in.  He doesn’t fully comprehend it, but he knows it’s serious. 

 He knows he’s going to have to do something about it.  What, he’s not sure, but the need is compelling enough to make him try.  (which will lead us into the second act, and his first attempt). 

 Build into your character change an early event or situation that reveals his need to change.  It must be a sufficient enough threat that it will force him to confront his demons and fears, or beliefs – all those obstacles to change. 

 Because if he doesn’t have to change…..well then you’re just going to have to close the door and wait until he’s disgusted by his own horrible smell. 

Actually, he’s a great kid and I’m so proud of him. It’s an honor to be apart of his life’s journey.