Suggested Resolve for the Year

2012 is upon us. Did you resolve to do anything this year? How is that going? Of course, we're only five days into the year, so hopefully you haven't lost any "battles" with your resolve thus far. I didn't make a resolution, just a goal to read through the Bible with a "One Year Bible." It has been going well.

I came across this quote at the end of last year and thought it may be a good "resolve" for some to think about in 2012. It focuses on how to have a happy year and also how to have one for others. With that said, let's look at this week's quote...

A happy New Year! Grant that I
May bring no tear to any eye
When this New Year in time shall end
Let it be said I've played the friend,
Have lived and loved and labored here,
And made of it a happy year.
- Edgar Guest

So often we think about how we can create a New Year's resolution that will benefit ourselves. This poem suggests that when we go about the year let's not just think of ourselves, but think of others.

My "theme" for the year is 212-degrees, which means to go the extra degree to make significant impact on people. What will you do to go to the extra degree?

Now it's your turn...What is difficult about fulfilling this poem?

What Do You See in the World?

I am probably typical when it comes to wanting to look at myself in the mirror. Those flaws will be seen more so than the good areas. We all probably would like to lose something here or there, have something changed, etc.

Though we look at the mirrors in our bathrooms and bedrooms with certain judgments about ourselves. How does the world look at you? That brings us to this week's quote...

The world is a great mirror. It reflects back to you what you are. If you are loving, if you are friendly, if you are helpful, the world will prove loving and friendly and helpful to you. The world is what you are. ~ Thomas Dreier

I read in a parenting book some advice about not being too upset when your child wants to do something radical with their hair or even wear something unconventional. Hair - whether colored or cut off - will grow back. Clothes are apparel on the outside, they can be changed - even if it is over time.

One's social circle will greatly influence how you are formed. It will also be your "judge" as you try new things out. Have a crazy haircut and the schoolyard will determine if it stays that style. Unfortunately, the schoolyard may have a greater influence over parental advice.

How are you being seen by the world? You may not even realize what peoples' views are of you, based on the views not being told to you. However, it probably won't take that long for you to realize if you are loving, friendly, helpful, and the list could go on. These are determined by how much you are reflecting them in your own life.

Make sure you do all you can to have a positive reflection!