January 2, 2010

Today Emily wanted to share an inspirational column written by Nell Mahoney that appears in the  January 2, 2010 Chattanooga Times Free Press. 


The Seven Ups for a Successful New Year

 There seems to be an almost universal desire for a new beginning as we face a brand new year.  In my experience, there are two problems that keep us from realizing that desire. First, our good intentions get lost in the pressures of everyday living. Second, we believe that willpower is all we need. So, we work harder and harder while going in the same direction and making the same mistakes. 


Perhaps we need to reinvent ourselves with God's help.  This involves getting a clear picture of what God would have us be and do at our particular age and circumstance.

So often we simply do what comes next without asking such questions as "Do I need to change directions? Why haven't my efforts in the past been more successful?  Do I need to learn new skills or be more focused, or have a more vital spiritual experience?"


We need to believe that our picture of a "new you" is possible.  Millions of people around the world have just celebrated the birthday of Jesus, the Christ.  In John's Gospel (1:2) we read, "But to all who received him, who believed on his name, he gave the power to become..." 


As a practical plan, I like the Seven Ups of a successful, happy new year as passed on to me by Tim and Linda Martin of Kingsport, Tenn. 


1. Wake Up: This should be done each morning with gratitude for our blessings.  Instead of fretting about how much we have to do, we need to condition our thoughts with positive affirmations, such as "This is the day the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:24). 


2.  Dress Ups:  I heard a well-known psychiatrist say, "Taking a shower and getting dressed early in the morning will help you be energized and disciplined throughout the day."


3.  Shut Up: There is a Greek proverb that says, "We have two ears and one mouth that we may listen the more and talk the less."  In Proverbs 13:3 we read, "He who guards his lips, guards his soul." In my own life, the people who have influenced me most have mastered the art of listening.  With them, I feel understood and thus trust them implicitly. 


4.  Stand Up: Stand up for what you believe, not in arrogance or intolerance, but with love and confidence.  Alexander Hamilton said, "Unless you stand for something, you will fall for anything." 


5.  Look Up:  Look to God for guidance and empowerment.  It's important to remember that we are not in charge of the universe.  Those who are wrapped up in themselves make very small packages. 


6.  Reach Up:  I do not believe that humility is found in a person who is weak and spineless. Rather, I see true humility exemplified in a person who is seeking to live up to all he or she was created to be, and yet measures himself by one who has attained that goal.  For me, that one is Christ.  The quality of his life rises like a Matterhorn among other mountain ranges. 


7.  Lift Up:  Every day, by our words and actions, we either lift up or put down those around us.  We need to lift up prayers for others, our world and ourselves.  


So if you want to be a "new you," reinvent yourself with God's help, get a clear picture of what you can become, and use the Seven Ups of successful living to have a happy new year. 


Nell Mahoney is a Christian author, motivational speaker, and seminar leader.  She may be reached at nellwmahoney@comcast.net