“We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, for auld lang syne”   Robert Burns

Some of us are happy to ring out 2010, what with the poor economy, lost jobs, increased homelessness, frozen wages, etc.  There is a long list.  The New Year brings hope filled aspirations and thoughts.  Even though many have struggled and had to cut back on necessities, there are those of us who are fortunate enough to have maintained a status quo, nothing too great but not so bad.  I fall into that category for which I am thankful.  No matter where you fit in, live in the Spirit.  You don’t always get what you want, but grace does grow in the cracks.  Look to a brighter more prosperous new year.

The tasks of everyday living continue, so get on with them.  As everyone knows, this is the time to make “New Year’s Resolutions” a term that has evolved into a cliche, and the butt of many jokes.  We can set goals and objectives to improve ourselves any time of the year, and ideally should do so continually.  However, at the start of a new year, we do harbor expectations and a sense of impending good and our ability to achieve it.  So make a short list (even if it is the same as prior years) of those wants and hopes that niggle at the back of your mind.  There are probably some there that require a substantial commitment.  Renew your intentions to begin them.  There are those that are more common and probably easier to obtain that are personal to all of us.  Renew you intentions about these, as well.  Making a concentrated effort to be a better person is a good one that we can all list.

Of course, an excellent way to see quick results for a good start to the year is to physically sort and weed your environment.  Update your files by clearing out documents that are outdated, make new file folders, etc.   Sort through cupboards and closets and get rid of that red jacket that has been hanging there since 1970, or that set of melmac (now melamine) dishes that were ugly when they were new.  While you are sorting and packing things to give away, stay in the moment, release and LET GO.

As we begin a new one, reflect on the events of the past year.  Try to recognize and be aware of your successes and failure, of what you gained and what may have been lost.  Acknowledge and release it with thanks.  Whether excitement or apprehension is your emotion as you face 2011, know that the spirit will instill confidence and strength to meet every situation.  With each breath take in the richness of life and spirit.

“Then you shall see and be radiant; your hear shall thrill and rejoice, because the abundance of the sea shall be brought to you”  Isaiah 60:5

As the New Year arrives and we leave the old one behind, a few moments of quiet reflection allow us to visualize and prepare for a new beginning; to find peace with whatever changes may occur.  Let us begin this year with enthusiasm.  Open your mind to divine direction and guidance and accept new experiences as a gift.

Article by Judy Struna