I like the phrase “New Year’s Recognitions” rather than “New Year’s Resolutions.” Why? Because in order for a resolution to last, it has to be a recognition of something inside that we really want, not a resolution to fight against something we don’t want. What are those things you want deep inside yourself? I’ll list mine, so you can see if any strike a chord in your heart.
1. I recognize that I want the relationships in my life to be positive and fruitful, so…
I will love extravagantly, while respecting the boundaries of others.
2. I recognize that I want to build acquaintances into friendships, so…
I will make myself available by joining in activities that give others access to knowing me, and I will extend opportunities for other activities to those with kindred spirits.
3. I recognize that I want to have strong bones and a healthy body, so…
I will continue to build on the foundation of nutrition, rest, exercise, play, relationships, and prayer that have brought the marked health improvements gained thus far.
4. I recognize that I want to be happy in my job, so…
I will nurture positive relationships with my colleagues, avoid negative people who drag me down, and use every opportunity to be creative and effective in my work.
5. I recognize that I want to be totally free of past regrets, so…
I will remember that no human being can heal me of wounds from my childhood. Only I can do that, with the help of my Savior, Jesus Christ. I will trace the thoughts that make the wounds fester, and then the feelings that result from those thoughts. I will trace what I want to do because of the way feel, what I actually DO do, and what the results of my actions are…and I will observe and deal with whatever patterns I find. I will distract myself from painful thoughts by using my mind for more productive ventures–such as sharing helpful information through this website–and I will convert painful feelings to joy and vitality through vigorous exercise and uplifting reading and positive relationships. Eventually, the desperate thoughts will be replaced by ones of hope and love and strength. And I will be FREE!
6. I recognize that I want to write and publish a novel, so…
I will finish revising the manuscript I drafted and submit it on-line by the end of the summer.
7. I recognize that one day I will leave this earth, and I want to live forever, so…
I will use whatever time I have left to the glory of God, that I might spend eternity with our Creator, who is Love personified, trusting that heaven is everything that He promised through His Son and our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Happy New Year! Happy New Life!
Kathy
Tags: Faith Reflections
