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We say “Happy New Year!” But I wonder if we are really just referring to the night or the day surrounding the change of years. Ya know, “Have a great party!”
Rarely on January 1 have I thought about the year as a whole and how to make the next 364 days happy ones.
Life is so full of twists and turns in the road and things go in a totally different direction than what we plan on Jan 1.
Sometimes it’s not a good direction. At least not at the time. But, having lived through some very rough patches in life (miscarriage, debt, death, and loss of friendships), I’m convinced that God has a wonderful way of working things for our good.
While I did not enjoy the above mentioned rough patches, I know that God has used them to grow me, mature me, and make me more thankful for the blessings He’s given me.
It’s generally not what we would have imagined or chosen, but if we trust God and do our best, well, it can be a good thing.
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What’s does the future hold?
I have no idea what will happen in the new year. I imagine that some things will change, some will stay the same. But, I know that I want to approach the twists and turns that are sure to characterize the road ahead with the right attitude.
- I want to trust that God is ultimately in control.
- I want to remember to hold things loosely — what do I have that He hasn’t given me?
- I want to laugh often and love much.
- I want to say yes, be all there, and enjoy today.
Will these things guarantee that my year is a happy one? No, there’s no guarantee to anything in life.
But, I think if we expect the unexpected and prepare our hearts and minds to tackle stumbling blocks with determination and a good attitude, well, I think it can be a happy year.
May yours be a very happy year!
