Reflecting

At the end of each year, I reflect on the year behind me. What were my accomplishments? What were my failures? What were the highs, the lows? What am I thankful for? What are my regrets? What did I learn?

One thing that stands out this past year was the passing of my Dad. I knew it would happen one day. He was almost 92 years old. I was hoping that I would have one more in-person visit with him. One more thank you. One more hug. One more I love you. 

I learned a lot from my Dad – some good and some not so good. He was a doer. When he decided to do something, he didn’t let anything stop him from accomplishing what he set his mind on. He wasn’t concerned about what others might think or say. He was tenacious. 

I think I need more of that in my life. I feel like God has so much more for my life than what I am allowing Him. Unlike my Dad, I let fear of what others might think guide many of my decisions and keep me from moving forward and doing things that I think I should do. 

Also, I’m an over thinker. My Dad had the ‘get it done’ attitude. Don’t wait for someone else to do it or for the right time. There is no time like the present. 

Dad didn’t seem afraid of failure, or maybe he was so sure of himself that failure wasn’t even a thought or an option. If something failed, it was a learning experience towards improving and success. There didn’t really seem to be any obstacles for him to accomplish what he set his mind to. He was determined. 

What does the year ahead hold for me? I’m not making any New Year’s resolutions but think I need to follow the example of my Dad. Don’t just think and plan but follow through on the planning and do it. There will never be the ‘right’ time so don’t wait, now is the time. If I feel led to do something, I shouldn’t let what others might think stop me. 

Verses to reflect on:

Micah 6:8 “He has showed you, O man, was is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

James 1:22 “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

As you reflect on the past year, what changes do you want to make in the year ahead? When you reflect on the past, embrace the good memories…it’s a beautiful thing.