F2M2

New Year's resolutions are buzzing around - I've even seen a few funny comic strips about how resolutions are goals you have for the first week of the new year.  Obviously, we are all notorious for setting goals, falling off the wagon, and some of us never quite hop back up and that wagon speeds off into the distance until the following year.  Personally, I don't make resolutions . . . at least not in the traditional way.  What I do, which may be a common practice with you, is take time to reflect on the past year . . . with clearer vision.

When we're in the thick of things - good or bad - our vision is muddled and often times we may not have the best perspective or reaction to a specific event.  This is especially true when dealing with negative aspects of our lives.  It is so much easier to look back, with a calmer heart and clearer head, and figure out what could have been done differently . . . and what WILL be done differently should that situation arise in the future.  Those negative situations are more often what shapes us and helps us to become a better person - not something to dwell on or lament bad decisions - rather, something to learn from and move forward.

The best part of thinking back is knowing that everything happened for a reason.  I may not understand or like those difficult moments, but I don't regret a single one of them - and that is really good for M2's soul.  The few days I was able to 'disconnect' and refresh my spirit really did help to provide clarity on a few events I was struggling with, which also allowed me to focus on the positive.  Focusing on the positive doesn't mean you forget or refuse to acknowledge the times that knocked you down, conversely, it is what drives you to get back up, shake it off, and get back in the game.

So what did I learn from 2011?  Hmmm.  I learned that I am not a machine . . . I finally gave in to the fact that I am human…;))  And while I try to be everything to everyone, I can't . . . and as much as I don't like it, every now and then, I have to admit I'm human.  Also, I worked VERY hard in 2011 and although that is part of who I am, I do intend to take more time to smell the roses.  One thing that I am keeping with me is the feeling I had when my PS group helped a family in need for Christmas.  If you know me, you know I love to give and while it is something I try to do year round (on a smaller scale), the response from our family really inspired me to make a focused effort to helping out - in any way I can - throughout the entire year.

If each of us focuses on helping our community, we can make a significant impact.  Your contribution can come in many different ways - many parents are cleaning out old toys to make room for their kids Christmas loot --- donate those old toys to a children's home.  If you are cleaning out your pantry for a healthier lifestyle and have any (unused) foods, donate them!  Very soon, we will all be Spring cleaning - DONATE!  If you can only donate your time, volunteer!  If you do not have time to volunteer, go in with some friends on a HEB gift card for a struggling family, or buy a pair of shoes for a child who needs them.  You get the idea - help how ever you can…:))  That was my most memorable experience for 2011 and I am taking it with me into 2012 . . . will you join me?


Happy New Year…:))