Bob Dylan wrote a very famous song in the 1960’s about how culture was changing. People all over the world started to fight for their human rights. It was a very exciting time. The name of this song is “The Times They Are A-changing”. This song has become a very important symbol for cultural shifts all over the world.
   How do we talk about changes over time in English?  We use the expression “used to” + VERB. This means that something happened several times in the past, but doesn't anymore. For example, in Europe, people used to eat their food only with their hands. Now people use knives and forks. What if I want to describe a state that has changed? I used to hate formal clothes, but now I love wearing a suit and tie!  I’m a grown-up now! 
   You can also talk about actions that did not use to happen. For example, when I was in high school, I didn’t use to eat sushi, but now I eat it all the time. My taste buds have changed! Don’t offer to pay for my sushi dinner now, it will be very expensive for you! How about if  we want want to talk about a new state?  It’s the same idea: My best friend didn’t use to exercise, but now he’s super fit, like a body builder. He changed his exercise and diet, and now he looks great. He used to be fat!
   “Used to” is very useful for these kinds of situations. I recommend that you think about your own life. How have you changed?  Make a list of things you used to do that you don't do anymore, and things you never used to do. Try to think of fun, creative, and real examples. That will help you to remember how to use the expression very well. If you used to have trouble talking about changes in the past, you won’t after practicing this!  Your English is A-Changing!