It’s that time of year again when we look to the next twelve months and make resolutions. The most common are daily routine (ex: get up earlier), eat healthy, lose weight, save money, quit smoking. Most people (88% according to Google) give up by the end of January. Having had the same problem, I give myself wiggle room by writing down “possibilities” and believe small changes over time make a big difference.
I’m getting older (aren’t we all?), but it is never too late to write a new story. Each of us has a story, and we can change it. We don’t have to do or be the same this year as we were last year. It’s a matter of choice. Some people think after a certain age, you’re going downhill. As a Christian, I’m going up the hill, even when the road is rocky and steep and my body isn’t as cooperative as it was in my 40s, 50s, 60s.
My mind, and not my body or circumstances, govern my decisions. So much of the good life has to do with attitude. I confess mine isn’t always the best. When I’m tired, I’m grumpy. (Just ask Rick.) Sometimes a day’s work leads to aching bone and muscle and wondering if I got anything done – and I snarl. (Just ask Rick.) Some nights I wake up and worry about the future. What happens to Rick if something happens to me? As if I am indispensable…
I will say in my seven decades on this earth, I have learned a few things. Anxiety and gratitude cannot exist at the same time. That’s not my opinion. That’s scientific fact. Hence, any time I feel “out of sorts”, I pray for others because everyone has trials and tribulations. Sometimes I lie awake in the dark and go through the alphabet of God’s names: Adonai, Bread of heaven, Creator, Deliverer… And I pull up my mental list all the things for which I’m thankful. And there are so many!
The truth is whatever we do, whatever we decide, we own it. We bear the consequences, good or bad. And attitude makes a big difference in whether people want to be around you or not. I like people who exude serenity. I admire people who make no excuses and accept responsibility. I want to be cool, calm, and collected in any crisis that comes our way.
Few people like change. But life changes constantly. We constantly face a new story. Be brave. Be kind. Be obedient to whatever God has nudged you to do. And be blessed. God says “Do not fear” 365 times in the Bible. That’s one for every day of the year. God knows us so well, doesn’t He? Remember! Gratitude is the antidote against anxiety/fear.
And with all these muddled thoughts, I think I’ve found my word for the year. Gratitude. This is a day that the Lord has made, and I will (make the decision to) rejoice in it. Hallelujah! And amen.