With the new year upon us, I would like to challenge you to think about resolutions and what they really mean, what they can show us, and ultimately how we can experience them after they've been made. First of all, most of us really never contemplate the word resolution until a couple of days after christmas, usually after we've indulged in some way with food or drink, or realized that another year has come and gone and we still weren't able to fit into that favorite black dress or suit. Or we may have had time to sit and think about how the past year was experienced, of course most often noticing the things that went wrong, instead of the things that went very well. But whatever the case, it seems time for a bit of contemplation, and then wondering if there might be some changes that need to take place in the year to come, which would ultimately bring us more happiness, peace, and success.
So resolution implies a time to reflect on the past year, and then hopefully some sort of plan of action with hopes of change for the future. Well, sounds like a positive movement, well thought over, well intended, with a little sprinkle of hope, that whatever the plan might be, it could be achieved with discipline and determination. You might even be excited about sharing your resolutions with those around you, in hopes that you would receive adequate encouragement, and a following that would cheer you onto the finish. It all sounds very exciting and well intended.........so how could resolution be bad?
Well......I'm not implying that resolution itself is a bad thing....because of course it motivates us to move forward....to work harder.....to be more focused on our goals.....etc. And even if most of us wait until the week between christmas and new years to ponder these thoughts.....it's still to be commended. However..........I know....don't you hate it when I finally get around to the "however" comment? However.......what would it feel like if I threw a different word into the new years resolution mix.........like for instance......transformation? After all.....you can think and ponder......reflect the past year....and even come up with some good ideas, but ultimately, you are honestly asking yourself to change.......to go from what "was" in the last year, into what you feel needs to be different for the year to come.
All good stuff again.......but if you grasp the concept of transformation, you do of course realize that some action is going to be needed. You can think, ponder, wonder, wish, even come up with good plans....but unless you actually put those plans to work, you won't accomplish anything by the time 2011 rolls around. Again.......all well intended and exciting to think about any change that might be coming, but you will in fact have to take into consideration that many ingredients are needed in this new mix of resolution/transformation........some you may have stored away......some may be easily implemented.......and some you will have to search for, and could take a while to find.
My suggestion is to sit down quietly and make a list. A list of things about your life and about yourself that you would like to see differently in the year to come. Ask yourself some questions like..........do I like myself? Do I provide a soft place to fall for my family, or do I drain them dry as often as possible? Am I determined to talk instead of listen? Do I do anything that makes my life easier or healthier? Do I constantly judge, criticize and belittle those around me, instead of building them up and encouraging them? Do I stay overly busy because it makes me feel worthy? Do I punish people when I don't get what I want by pouting or avoiding them? Do I know when and how to say no? Do I check my motives when I want or need something from someone? Do I promote peace within my family, or chaos? Do I really know what true humility is? Do I allow friends and family to make their decisions, trusting their judgement instead of imposing mine?
These are all good questions for self-reflection...and I'm sure you could add a few of your own to the list......feel free. Just remember that when you do come up with your list, it will bring a sense of freedom and peace within yourself because you've actually begun to think about how you yourself can not only make plans to be better for the new year, but how you can actually put into action those ideas that will ultimately transform you into a vessel that can actually change the world. A vessel that holds peace, harmony, compassion, a sense of otherness, and a genuine need to express selfless love.
It is possible to navigate this world gently....truly it is.... but it does have to start with you. Your attitude, your behavior, your truth, your humility, your sense of otherness, your willingness to change negative energy into positive. So.......have a life changing new year..........transform yourself into something better.
Happy New Year
