This year-end post is rather late, but you can consider it for the Chinese New Year. It's nice to look back on the highlights of 2011. However, much of the things that struck me were the lessons I've learned from last year's experiences, may they be good or bad.
5. Give yourself a deadline.
Planning is one thing, but starting it is another. It's very easy to list down the things we want to accomplish, but do we really want these things enough to get us out of our comfort zones and make sacrifices to make them happen? I've learned that if we don't give ourselves deadlines, we won't achieve anything. Chances are we would just put off the items in our checklist and forget about them eventually.
Deadlines also work for knowing when to stop. I have always believed that quitting is not always a sign of weakness and it was three years ago when I've come across an article online that impeccably voices out my sentiments. It takes a lot of wisdom to figure out when to put a halt to our serious efforts on something (or someone) that proves our commitment futile. As human beings, we can only do so much and we have to learn how to determine when it is wise to put our resources and energy on other things that could be more fruitful.
4. Appreciate as many things as you can.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
I am also guilty of taking things that we already have for granted and stressing ourselves out on things that we keep on desiring. I guess at times, we must step back and realize that what we have now are the things we used to want. We must also be thankful for the unexpected blessings that come our way. They may not always be tangible objects, but all the little things that make our lives more fun, more delightful and more meaningful are blessings that we should always be grateful for.
Any story sounds true until someone tells the other side and sets the record straight.
Proverbs 18:17 TLB
Without discernment, we can easily fall into the trap of believing everything we hear and we are told about other people and the things that happen around us. We may deem them as valuable information that can change our perspective, but it can also create prejudices that can stir rage that should not have existed in the first place.
Before we pass judgement, we must seek all the facts first.
2. Forgive. Really.
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:13
It is very difficult to forgive someone who hurt us, but we have to with or without the apology of the person who did us wrong. Whenever I am faced with this challenge, I just think to myself, "If God has forgiven me for my shortcomings, I don't have any reason not to forgive others." And when we forgive, we should mean it and learn from the experience.
1. Stand up for what you believe in.
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
This is easier said than done. During conversations we can easily express our point-of-views and our stand on what is right and wrong, but the moment our principles get tested, we face a challenge. Only through tough times can we realize our true strength. No one is perfect, but it is not an excuse to take the path of least resistance, when push comes to shove, most especially if it jeopardizes our character.
Comments