2012 is here! I have waited a few days before doing this blog to let the reality set in. By now most of our resolutions are just a memory, and there is nothing new or any big changes in our lives.
Something which has helped me with my resolutions through the years is from a sermon I heard by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. I was a junior in college and was home on Christmas break. A friend invited me to attend Marble Collegiate Church. I learned a valuable lesson that day and it has served me very well through the years, more than 50 of them!
Dr. Peale was talking about keeping New Year’s resolutions. One of the mistakes, he said, was that we make too many resolutions. As a result, none of them work. Dr. Peale explained that we should just choose one resolution that is manageable. I did not keep my New Year’s resolution that particular year, but I did a few years later. I remembered what Dr. Peale had said,
Take only one resolution, focus on it with breathing space and your life will change.”
That year when I addressed my New Year’s resolution, it worked! I gave myself plenty of time and knew I would make a few mistakes. I did make a few mistakes here and there, but kept my eye on the prize. By the first of August I had accomplished my goal. Since then, whenever I make a resolution I focus on just one, give it time, and watch the results happen.
The formula works! Simply decide what needs to be changed, then focus your mind on that change and give yourself time. There will be periods of time when you forget or are weak, but keep your mind clearly focused. You’ll discover that change will happen in ways you could never imagine.
As you work toward your goal, pray that God will support you and know in your heart that regardless of things going on, God is there. With His power of promise, with His love and acceptance, everything in life can change.
I pray that you have a productive year with much joy and happiness and the experience of success through a New Year’s resolution.
God Bless.
Happy New Year!
Love,
Carolyn
We are taking the same approach in my business. Focus on one or two priorities, and everything else improves as well.
Keep the blogs coming.
Dr. Calindro, I was web surfing and thought to enter your name. What a pleasant surprise. Your messages are a welcome touchstone of faith, a welcome reminder. Thank you.
Dear Bob,
So good to hear from you. I have warm memories of you, your wonderful mother and family.
I remember well the tremendous story of your life, how with the power of faith and hope, you overcame so much and made something very good out of difficult and destructive circumstances. Your faith is a shining light and I encourage you to keep the faith!
Good to hear from you again.
Warm regards,
Arthur
Dear Dr. Caliandro:
Thank you and Happy 2012!
Your sermons online mean so much to me. It’s wonderful to hear your voice through the computer. I have received much inspiration and comfort from your wisdom, vulnerability and humorous anecdotes. Thank you for being a virtual mentor and thank you for being a loving friend to so many…even those you may never have met.
You have a generous heart and a wonderful spirit.
With Warmest Wishes,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth -
Thank you for your kind words. You made my day.
Arthur,
I want to “second” Allen’s comment…keep the blogs coming…we need your voice & wisdom.
I’m just returning from a conference with Richard Rohr – thought of you often as I heard him offer his remarks.
He mentioned he had written a book with Paula D’Arcy…which of course brought back some wonderful memories with us all.
Blessings & Peace to you…Have a wonderful 2012!
Billy
Dear Billy -
It is so good to have heard from you as you responded to the blog. One of my dreams is to get down to Savannah on a Sunday morning and experience your church. I hope I can make that happen soon.
Please give my loving best to Sherry and your now-grown children. We’ll be in touch.
Warmest regards,
Arthur
Dear Dr.Caliandro,
Your sermons on T.V. (America at Worship) carried me through a very difficult time. Thank you! God bless you and your wonderful messages!