New Year's Resolutions - Along the Narrow Way

I’m not one for traditional New Year’s Resolutions. Typically I’m good for a week or two and then find that what I’ve chosen doesn’t work for one reason or another.

Gym memberships are expensive.
I can’t find an app to help with whatever I was hoping to achieve.
I don’t have a support group to check in with – I need the accountability.
Etc., etc., etc.

I know many people have similar experiences.

A few years ago, I heard that the best time to start a gym membership is in March or April because most people only last two to 3 months with their exercise resolutions; hence, the gyms aren’t as busy.

There’s also shame that’s associated with the failure. And, with so many people struggling with mental health, it’s probably best for all of society if we make helpful and healthy resolutions to better ourselves when we’re actually ready and not according to a date on the calendar.

2025 had its ups and downs: I got a job that I loved, Jerry bought a boat that we spent wonderful weekends on, and we made many new friends. But, stress from an understaffed office, lots of time off due to illnesses, and the worries of being a first-time boat owner jacked up my anxiety and depression. Regardless of the circumstance, the depression made it difficult to find the good and beautiful… to see God at work.

My hope is to change that moving forward.
I quit the job this past Thanksgiving and my mental health is finally back on track.

Taking a cue from the Blessed Mother, I’m resolving to ponder in my heart those events, experiences, and people I come in contact with. As I end each evening, my goal is to weave these into my evening Examen – to reflect where God can be found throughout my day – whether meeting someone on the street, seeing the doc for a medical check up, my struggle with weight gain or loss, whatever the day presents. Because God is in it with me.

And, as my pastor said a few weeks ago, “God is not only with us, He is FOR us.” Jesus is cheering us on – through good times and bad. I pray my eyes and heart will be open to the simple miracles that occur around us every moment of every day.

You, my wandering friend, are a blessing!

Please pray for me as I pray for you… and Happy New Year!