New Year Anticipation

31Dec/099

New Year Anticipation

This year has been one of substantial reflection for me - for which I am thankful. Introspection is the only manner in which a man can begin to become wise. It is in the discernment of his weaknesses that he comes to know himself. And it is a constant process of embracing those weaknesses - owning those weaknesses as his own that a man realizes what he needs to work on. And once knowing what need be corrected, a man has one of two choices: ignore his shortcomings... or rectify them. If he ignores his shortcomings, he cannot be said to be moving forward. He cannot be said to be becoming what he is ordained to become. This is what I believe is mostly meant when we reflect on the Deadly Sin of sloth. If, on the other hand, a man commits to rectifying (or at least minimizing) his weaknesses in character - thoughts, decisions, words, deeds - he has the opportunity to more fully grow into his intended role - his destiny.

Now, for man, the road of life is at first exciting. Then after some time less so. Then a little rocky here and there. Then occasioned by smooth spots along the way. As days accrue, his body diminishes. Slowly he loses his step. And there is no remedy. So, as the body diminishes, the whole man (if he desires to remain whole) is called to brace himself with a more robust spirit. The equilibrium of psyche and soma is upset if the one diminishes and the other fails to increase. I believe the term "wise" applies to the man who meets this continual challenge. The opposite we may call a "fool".

Nevertheless, the spirit is willing ... the flesh is weak.

I am a "piece of shit work in progress."

With that said, and in the spirit of moving forward toward my destiny, I place here, now and publicly, some of the things I would like to fix this year about me.

1) I must quit smoking. I really, really must. I will once again attempt it.

2) I must speak less hastily. If you prefer, I must more often "hold my tongue."

3) I must be more merciful - to strangers, family, friends - in my judgments and in my words (without being cowardly, mind you)

4) I need to be less-cerebral in my attempts to grow in my faith... I need to practice more of what I profess to believe in. This means, I need to attend Mass regularly (fidelity), pray more regularly (fielty), attend the Sacrament of Confession regularly (humility).

5) I need to be a better husband and father.

I was going to add a 6th, because I could go on and on... but these should keep me plenty occupied.

Now, I am not going to get my hopes up. I am rebellious by nature. I like to smoke. I am given to being short-tempered and becoming frustrated with others. I have never really been accused of being romantic... and my kids will tell you I like them to do as I say rather than what I do!

Nonetheless, this Piece of Work in Progress remains hopeful.

To you and yours! May 2010 bring you blessings in abundance! May 2010 be your most glorious year!

Please have a SAFE New Year's Eve.

Enoch_Root

Person with kids,a beautiful wife, a job. Catholic of the Latin Rite.

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fisher72
December 31st, 2009 - 06:47

Amen brother! Almost verbatim for me… One of mine is that I daily ask God to help me be a better Christian in not only what I “do” but what I “should be doing” – helping me to realize the sins that I am unaware of, and continually strive to humble myself. And of course, smoking has made the list as well – and this time I am determined: money, health, good influence to my kids, etc. I cannot put this off another year.

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Mr. Bingley
December 31st, 2009 - 12:00

I need to be less-cerebral in my attempts to grow in my faith

I think that’s a good path to follow. When we over-think the scriptures we tend to try and out our own ego’s stamp on them so we can pat ourselves on the back at our cleverness (which we parade as “understanding”); in essence we try and play god. We end up no wiser and no closer to god than the pharisees on the street corner. jesus doesn’t say ‘what’s your opinion on this’ or ‘analyze this’; he says ‘follow me.’

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meep
January 1st, 2010 - 03:16

Happy New Year, y’all!

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kc
January 1st, 2010 - 06:07

Analysis Paralysis. “Faith without Works is Dead.” I will work on the actual hands-on helping, not the THINKING ABOUT helping.

If I don’t wish to be nearly immobile this time next year, I must begin to do my phys.therapy/yoga routine this time this year. Three times per week.

My housecleaning MUST improve. This doesn’t mean it will pass anyone’s white glove test, but cleaning one room per week from top to bottom really doesn’t seem beyond my capabilities. Just because I USED to be able to clean them ALL top to bottom in one or two days is no reason to stop altogether.

Helpful and kind to others without being servile or condescending. I will strive to have a joyful, grateful heart, in any and all conditions.

Thanks for the inspiration, and Happy New Year to all those who post, comment or lurk here!

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carin
January 1st, 2010 - 07:38

1) I must quit smoking. I really, really must. I will once again attempt it.

Perhaps if you focused on the taxes you pay when you purchase those cigs. In Michigan, the taxes are $3.01 a pack.

Personally, I don’t go-in (anymore) for New Year’s resolutions. I adopted the philosophy that changes you wanna make should be made immediately. Even in the middle of the day.

Nothing wrong with starting a diet right after lunch, instead of waiting until tomorrow. Cause the “clean slate” starts when you start. Nothing magical about Monday or jan 1st.

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- Enoch_Root
  January 1st, 2010 - 09:48
  
  I roll my own.
  
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  - carin
    January 1st, 2010 - 11:07
    
    than be glad you don’t live in Michigan. Tax went for $1 to $24.78 per pound in April.
    
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Bob Reed
January 1st, 2010 - 10:48

A nice list Enoch, best of luck on your resolutions…

As you are a man of faith like myself, I humbly would suggest that if you are able to keep resolution number 4, then that will help you with all the others. Love God with all your heart, soul and being. And recognize that while scripture contains teachings and wisdoms that transcend and surpass the usual content of literature, it is more there for our comfort in times of trouble, and a form of connection, than for analysis or memorization.

If you take it meaning to heart, then the words will always be in your minds eye and on the tip of your tongue. Also remember that with Gid all things are possible, but on his timeline. So as with all things, don’t be discouraged by reansgression or backsliding; you’ll get where you need to go exactly when He intends you to…

Pray every day for God’s encouragement and guidance, as well as his forgiveness. Pray that He grace you with the ability to be a blessing to someone each day, just as he brings those into your life that are a blessing to you. Strive to be as merciful with others as He is with you. And pray that He help you move daily towards achieving the purpose, and fullfilling the destiny, that you were created for.

Best wishes for a happy new year to you and yours!

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Bob Reed
January 1st, 2010 - 10:49

Happy New Year! to all the POWIP family!

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