Resolutions are a tricky business. All of us have things we could be doing better, right? Habits we know we should kick, ways we could improve ourselves, obvious steps to a happier, healthier life: more exercise, less TV, earlier bed-times, etc. Things which do in fact lead to a happier, healthier life.
But everyone knows that New Year’s resolutions, despite their attractiveness, seldom acheive what they promise. Maybe we lack the willpower to keep up new routines over the long haul, or maybe the resistance proves too great. Or maybe we drive ourselves hard enough to reach our goals, only to find the satisfaction doesn’t last; it turns into self-righteousness or gets replaced with another, more difficult goal immediately. Whatever the case, like most attempts to “take control of our lives”, New Year’s resolutions tend not to work.
So this year, I thought I’d resolve not to make any more resolutions! Sadly, I’ve already failed… Hopefully you’re doing better.
My friend Drake Richey has a great take on the whole phenomenon:
“This year, my resolution is to ‘Do a little bit less than I did last year and maybe even do it a little less well.’ I want to be content with not being the best. And I want to be content with not doing everything that I can. I want to supplant my natural Army-instinct of ‘Be all that you can be’ with what Jesus tells Paul, ‘My grace is sufficient for you.’ I think it’s a good resolution (or anti-resolution) because it usually isn’t me who slows myself down – that’s where God comes in.”
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to the gym…
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2 responses to “New Year’s Resolutions”
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Hey Dave it’s Johnny. Found your blog and great to hear from you somehow! I’m now in San Diego trying to change the world! And I heard that you’re now a New Yorker! How are things after Sep 29th?
Tons of love from SoCal,
Johnny Wang
Johnny Wang is in the house! and posting on DZ’s blog! Johnny keep up the good work.