Let’s face it: 2009 was a tough year for a lot of people. I know of five different friends who lost their mothers to various tragedies. I know of four friends who have been through (or are in the process of) divorce. I know of several people who are bankrupt because of lost jobs or failed financial planning. Hurting people are all around us. I saw them last night when I sat in church. I saw a mass of hurting people.
I’m not trying to be “johnny raincloud” and dampen your spirits. I’m just writing what I see, what I feel, what I know. So, in the midst of all of this hurting, how can we make 2010 a better year? Well, there are no guarantees that this new year will be better than last year, but we can begin to transform the pain from the inside out.
Instead of reacting in fear, be proactive in faith, hope, and love.
Instead of dwelling on the negative things, find five blessings to be thankful for.
Instead of spending every dime until payday, set aside 5% in a special envelope marked “rainy day.”
Instead of wondering why the friends have disappeared, go out and make some new friends.
Instead of eating your next meal at the drive-through, take 5 minutes to pack a healthy meal from home.
Instead of sitting in front of the TV or computer, spend 10 minutes outside and walk in the fresh air.
Small choices and small changes can turn into big, positive results, if the arrows are pointed in the right direction. Sure, there are some things that are difficult to change, but there are many things that can be changed. 2010 can be a better year because of a few small choices that will lead to a positive change. Remember, it starts in the mind, it transforms the heart, and it impacts the world.
“Change the strategies to meet the objectives to reach the goals.” This is my own quote that I have learned from my health education classes, but it is applicable in our daily lives.
It is time for me to walk the talk. If you hold me accountable, I will hold you accountable, too.