Some thoughts about Resolutions.
Traditionally the “New Year” brings to mind resolutions for improving ones lifestyle or behaviour. Realistically many aspirations fall by the wayside, some resolutions are only talked about and not implemented, others may be made, but with the comforting thought that they won’t last long. Regrettably few achieve permanent results.
What if we were able to make resolutions for others rather than just ourselves? How much easier it would be to see their problems and faults than our own. But, and it’s a big but, there could well to be some insurmountable difficulties in implementing the changes that you believe to be needed. Just for a start, imagine explaining to your friends just what it is that you think they need to change or do to make them or their lifestyle more acceptable to you. Then if that doesn’t cause you to pause, think about the reactions you might get when you go on to suggest suitable resolutions for their betterment!
Probably the traditional approach is better after all!
A Christian approach to resolutions might be found in a quotation from the American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr (1892-1971).
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
This is thought provoking, particularly when you apply it to putting your own house in order. It leads me to a suggestion that a resolution to be more tolerant of what we believe to be the faults in others could be the start of a very good New Year for each one of us.
A Happy New Year to all at St Johns.
Roger Gardner