This time of the year, we’re all aware of the oldies but goodies when it comes to New Year’s resolutions.
Some of the “classics” include: losing weight, exercising more, quitting smoking, spending more time with family and working on our careers. I’ve resolved to do these things over the years, including many in the same year.
But while all of the above are laudable personal and professional goals, I’m looking for some “stretch” resolutions this year that will strengthen my spirituality and as a result, spill over into other areas of my life.
And, what better way to hold myself accountable than to lay my resolutions on the table, for all to see?
So, for my final blog entry of 2012, here are my 2013 resolutions:
1. Increase my preparation for Mass – Like anything else in life, preparation is critical for success and maximizing the meaning of any experience. I want to read the upcoming Sunday readings even earlier in the week to allow ample time for reflection on the scriptures and how God’s word applies to my life.
2. Do less, pray more – Everything is best in moderation, so I want to do less of things like eating, watching TV and spending time on the Internet. I want to do more reading, praying and deepening my faith.
3. Trust God more – It can be difficult for me during the challenging times of life to truly believe and trust in God’s will for my life. I made progress in 2012, I want to continue to grow in my trust of God and not be anxious about the circumstances of life, but rather be more aware of listening to God’s voice.
4. Share my faith more – During the Year of Faith, Pope Benedict has challenged Catholics to not only greater understand and grow in their faith, but also to share it with others by speaking truth about what God desires for our lives. As much as possible and in as many ways as possible, I want to challenge myself to have the courage to share the wonderful truths of our Catholic faith.
That’s it for me. Oh, by the way, I still plan to work on eating right, losing weight and spending as much time with my family as possible. Also, by creating his own Twitter account, Pope Benedict has inspired me to resolve to more fully understand and utilize social media!
Best of luck to you in setting and reaching your New Year’s resolutions! Happy New Year to you and best wishes for peace and even greater faith and joy in 2013!