Ever since a 1947 Gallup poll listed the 10 most popular
resolutions in the US, the top 10 have scarcely varied. Today, these
resolutions repeat themselves almost word for word: lose weight; quit smoking;
don’t drink as much; embark on self-improvement; get organised; manage finances
better; spend more time with family and friends. Others differ in wording, reflecting the fads
of the day, but differ little in substance. In 1947, it was “go to Church more
regularly”. Today, it might read “practise self-care” or even “explore new
places” Many of our resolutions today involve going on a “digital
diet” and cutting down on the hours we spend sitting at a
computer screen. The ancients – among others, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and
Indian; Jews, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, – had an alternative solution. Do
not focus on goals and well-thought plans, they said, because life is too
uncertain. Do not commit to changing your life by a set date. Instead, learn to make do with less. Do
not resolve to bend reality to your will; learn how to respond to surprises and
disorder. Do not fixate on dates; embark on a lifetime project, one step at a
time. Maybe we should try to slow down and give a little time for introspection,
meditation and speaking to the Lord. He’s always available, no appointments
required, just go to a church and look at the tabernacle. Look at Him, and remember
that He’s looking at you. Happy New Year.
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