Happy New Year! It’s a ‘new’ year. Time for a fresh start. There is opportunity here. We have choices to make. How we choose will make all the difference. I’ll be the first to admit, I haven’t always made the best choice. But, the important thing is to learn from our mistakes.
What do you want out of life? I mean what do you want your life to be filled with? Things or Experiences? What fills our bucket? Positive affirmation fills mine. I also love nature, animals, campfires, and spending time with family and friends. What gives us energy? I draw my energy from time alone with God and corporate worship. In contrast, what drains our energy? For me it’s negative words and physical pain when I don’t stretch like I should. These are questions we need to ask ourselves. Timing is everything. Let’s not waste any more time. I will spend more time contemplating these questions myself and journaling to move me forward.
When we find ourselves worrying, complaining, or feeling overwhelmed and negative thoughts begin to fill our heads, don’t give in. Push on, persevere through the trials. I’m not saying to run or to fight, and God’s Word tells us not to fear. So, instead, whatever it is – good, bad, hard, ugly, wonderful, beautiful….savor it. Those words really hit me while doing a bible study on Advent by Annie F. Downs with my coworkers this past month. Do we savor, or do we rush? Do we savor, or do we complain? Do we plan and then savor the fruits of our labor, or do we just live day to day with a ‘whatever’ attitude/mindset?
I challenge you to begin anew with me. Live this year with intention and savor whatever happens. Cry, sing, dance, smile, be silent; whatever the moment calls for. Learn, Grow, Do, Become. Try, take risks, love fully and unconditionally.
I recently hiked through one of our state parks with my husband. I savored the moment. The temperature was perfect, not too cold for a day in December. I savored the scent of the pine, the cold icy rock walls, the beauty of nature. I am thankful when I get the opportunity to see wildlife or hear of someone’s recovery or answered prayer. What makes your heart beat? Take time to ponder the question. Pay attention. Don’t lose focus. Live in the present.
So, savor the new year, savor the opportunities, and savor the time you have. Live your life to the fullest!