For most of us, this is a significant time of year. It is a time when we celebrate the birth of Christ. We gather with our families and friends and exchange love and gifts. It is also a time when it is very easy to be overwhelmed and stressed out by all of the festivities that this season brings. I would like to encourage us all to take some time out and really enjoy this blessed season. Let us reflect on the true meaning and significance of Christmas and our hopes and dreams for the New Year. 

Many of us at some point make resolutions for the upcoming year. Some of us want to lose weight, others may want to stop bad habits or change jobs.  Many times, the word “resolution” can be like the word “diet”, it is restrictive and controlling. It can sometimes make us want to do just the opposite. Instead, may I encourage you to make a “promise” to yourself instead?  Promise that the New Year will find you seeking more peace in your life, striving to do whatever it takes to improve your health, circumstances and emotional well being. 

Let this New Year really be a new beginning for you.  Invite change and healing into your life.  Do not settle for a life of mediocrity but insist upon and pursue a life of substance and significance.  Promise yourself that you will not take your eyes off of your goals no matter what obstacles come your way. Reassure yourself that obstacles and trials only come to build us up and strengthen us.  The journey may take a while so it is imperative that you be strong in mind and body. How can a swimmer build up lung capacity to swim stronger and further if he is not made to push harder and not give up? How can a track runner get to the finish line if she does not dig deep inside of her and push ahead of the pack? Obstacles can slow us down but use that time to regroup and take a look around. Do not use it as an excuse to give up.  Harriet Beecher Stowe said it best when she said, "Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn."

Remember that it is easy to claim faith when all is well. However, it is only when trials come that our faith is really tested. Pass the test. Seek the light in the darkness, it’s there.  Find the significance in your life and build on it.

Wishing everyone a prosperous, healthy and joyous New Year!

DeLores Pressley

http://www.delorespressley.com