Change.

So, I'm changing things up a bit for now (maybe forever, who knows).  I've come to the conclusion that if I want to be more open and honest about things, well, starting here isn't the worst choice in the world.  And what's the point in writing things down just to type them all?  So, instead of journaling, I'm going to put it here, and save my journal for another adventure and other writings.  Though, I may get the nerve (doubtful) to share that one day too.  Anyway, here goes.


New Year's resolutions.  I'm not the biggest fan.  I don't think I've made one in 5 or 6 years.  I don't really see the point of them.  Why should I have to resolve to do something on January 1st.  Why can't I evaluate my life and current life situation on March 28th and decide I need to implement some sort of change then?  I know it can be done then, but why glorify one day to make a change that is of no real consequence in life anyway?  Example: "Go to the gym" "Read a book" "Eat less junk food" "Watch less TV".  Blah blah blah.  Come on people, you can do better than that.  Where are the resolutions that deal with the human condition; the deeper things.  Yeah, say you'll go to the gym, so what if you don't.  What does that really hurt in the long run?  If you have the money to pay for a wasted gym membership, I think you'll be alright.  And you, Mr. Watch Less TV, is everything else in your world so good that all your problems revolve around the amount of television you watch?  I'm thinking no.

That being said, maybe all those resolutions are really just a lesson in goal setting.  Meet this goal this year and possibly move on to bigger and better things in the next year?  Maybe?  Eh, I'll think it's true.

So, the point?  Glad you asked.  The point is, I've made a resolution this year.  Gasp!  But, get ready, it gets better.  My hypocritical self has decided to make this resolution after, brace yourself, going to church!

But really though.  The sermon today was spot on.  And, the best part, it applies to Christian and non-Christian alike.  No matter your religious preference (or lack there of) it's applicable.  My pastor preached from 1 Peter:

1 Peter 4:7-9 (New International Version)

 ⁷The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.⁸Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. ⁹Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

There is so much packed in here it's amazing.  First, the point about being clear minded and self controlled.  Yes, it's directed toward prayer, but keeping one's head clear and being in control is something that should be done at all times, no matter how hard it can/will be.  I mean, look at how hard it is in todays time with all the celebrity clutter and cultish commercialism that abounds in this society.  How can I keep clear my own thoughts when all I'm supposed to be thinking about is how to get skinny, look like Tyra, speak like Oprah, and knock anyone down (including the homeless man begging for spare change) to get the last American Idol Best-Of CD on Black Friday?  Getting through this part is going to be a struggle in and of itself.  And I haven't even moved on to the part that encompasses my resolution.

The next part deals with love.  Notice, it says above all.  Above all love each other deeply.  It's all about love.  Just love everyone.  Not a select few.  All.  That is something I think we all should/can live by everyday.  As far as the "love covers a multitude of sins" part, well, that basically means that by loving someone you don't feel the need to correct and rebuke everything that they do wrong.  The love you have for them allows you to let some things roll off your back.  The best way to look at it is "cover what you can, confront what you have to."  Yeah, there are things those you love will do that you can't just let go, but make sure those things are actual character flaws and not just things that annoy you.  Anyway, I digress.  The main point here is to love and love everyone deeply.  

Moving on.  "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling."  This is great too.  Think about it.  Literally, offer up your home.  Let others into your life, and do so without complaining about the amount of work you may have to do in order to get your house ready.  In fact, don't worry about what your house may look like, be more concerned with the people coming over and how you're going to attend to them in a humble and hospitable way.  Basically, care more for the person not their potential perception of your house and possessions.  That part is easy to read, but I pulled more out of it personally.  In my own life, I think this hospitality involves opening up my self and letting people in without grumbling.  That is going to be difficult, but I believe it needs to be done.  Think about how many lonely people there are in your circle of friends and neighbors.  Letting these people into your house will not only brighten their day, but may work wonders on their perceptions of others as well as their self.  For me, it could be the same result if I let them into my life, my heart.  Who knows.

So, all that being said, what's my resolution?  I want to spend my time loving and covering.  I want to love everyone I contact and cover what can be covered instead of letting it get to me and cause bad feelings and emotions to these people. (*And I feel this can be easily done.  Though, I don't think it's going to become a habit right away, and yes, I do anticipate slip-ups, but I'm not going to let that break me down.)  Part two, I want to be hospitable without grumbling, literally, physically, emotionally, psychologically, etc.  I want to let people into my "home" (if you can count a dorm room as a home, haha) as well as my heart and soul.  (*).  Lastly, I want to be me, and nobody else; something I haven't done in quite a long time.

So, reader(s), there you go.  My "New Year's resolution".  I only hope to keep this up for years and years and years to come.  I anticipate it changing my life, and I hope the lives of those I come into contact with as well.  I also hope that my friends (with whom I share this with) will keep me on track with this.