Joy In The New Year

I stole this picture from a girlfriend's blog (thanks, Trish) as it really intrigued me. I'm not really a resolution setter, more of a goal breaker within a couple of weeks. However, I really like this thought of creating JOY in our own lives.

"JOY" is our family theme during the holidays. During my mission, my mission President's wife gave a lesson about using JOY to help direct our focus. Things should be done in order:

Jesus first
then Others
finally, think of Yourself.

Trish used this phrase in a UFO (UnFinishedObjects) challenge regarding sewing/craft projects. What a great relief to get all those things that have been started, but not finished, out of the way. I was thinking about all our projects, and in a new house there are MANY, but I was also thinking of relationships. How many unfinished resentments, grudges, or appreciations do I have stored up about people that I need to get out? Just plain letting go of the negative, and sharing the positive with those who really need to hear it.
Consider this a challenge for your own UFO's.

Another New Years idea that I read about was picking a word for the year. Then tacking that word up somewhere so you'd remember to live by it and help you make a change. Some examples were: "finish", "persevere", "nurture". I think my mantra for 2010 will be "DO IT". I know it's an oldie, but it's still a goodie. There are so many times when I feel inspired to talk to someone, reach out, or want to try something new, but fear holds me back. This year I want to step out of my comfort zone and grow a bit in different areas of my life. And also, use it as a motivator to get to work and do the things on my list, not just keep adding to my list. :)

However you mark this New Year, I really hope for you peace. Whatever trials/pains, joys/happiness that comes to you, I hope you have a good foundation to get you through. Peace is such an amazing gift, and I'm grateful for the peace that I'm starting 2010 out with.