View From The Pew


View from the Pew
By Lynsley Grady

There is something about the 1st of January that makes all of the things I did not complete the year before seem suddenly attainable. The New Year somewhat resembles a typical fairy tale story, but in reverse. Instead of turning into a pumpkin when the clock strikes 12, I become metamorphosed into this superhero who now knows the perfect plan on how to get it all done.

And then comes the 2nd of January…and, well, you know the rest.
Resolutions, resolutions, resolutions…

The words from my mouth speak affirmations that each moment is a new beginning and there is no need to wait until a new year to begin again. My lips deny that anything or anyone will get in my way – including myself. Yet, in my mind, I still have this long list of things that I intend to resolve within the next 365 days - that I must begin immediately after shouting “Happy New Year”! I may as well shout “Happy Next Year”, because I’m already booked for the New Year with ‘getting my act together’!

Without the right tools, my new year’s resolutions become more like my new year’s revolutions. I find myself going completely around in a circle and winding up right back where I started.

So should we just throw out the resolutions as quickly as we release the old year?

Personally, I don’t think making New Year’s resolutions is a particularly bad idea. I just think you have to fortify them with some Unity principles.

“…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) This is most definitely the first step. A new thought would be to usher in the new year with gratitude and thanksgiving, instead of a things-to-do list. Imagine starting the year off simply giving thanks for God’s grace.

Pray before the list is drawn up, as opposed to praying to keep up with the list. Charles Fillmore says “Pray, but let your prayer be affirmative, for that is the prayer of faith.”

Forgive any less than positive feelings about old resolutions that remain on the list. Divine time is the only time we need to be concerned with. Be ready for your change.

Have faith that no matter what comes our way, God is still in charge. Love God and love yourself first. It sure makes it a whole lot easier to love thy neighbor when you do.

So when the clock strikes twelve and you feel that cape latch on, and your stance begins to widen with your hands planted firmly on your hips, as the breeze begins to blow, be sure to take the Dynamic Duo of Faith and Love with you into your new year. And remember, with God, all things are possible…especially New Year’s resolutions!

Happy New Year!