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New Year Anxiety or Abundance?

January 6, 2011 By Jean Wise

A year ago I was scared.
Last year mark the end of a decade for me that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved telling people if I had know how good the 50s were going to be I would have rushed to them sooner. I grew as a writer and spiritually walked closer to God. My kids evolved into wonderful adults seeking their own adventures. My hubby and I both retired and open new fulfilling chapters in life. 
Would the 60s be as good?
I was scared.
But looking back, this last year has not been bad at all. I accomplished several items from my bucket list (a hot air balloon ride and finishing my Associate in Ministry requirement for the Lutheran church). Tried new recipes and saw new places. And learned a valuable lesson when a dream was dashed against the rocks that putting the broken pieces in God’s hands leads to healing.
Maybe that is one reason I like the start of the new year.  The energy and excitement of fresh new chapter in life.  The anticipation, though with some anxiety, of the blessings ahead.  The knowledge that even when bumps in the road stop me completely in my tracks, God is with me, showing me the way.
I can’t hold onto the old year, the past decade. We are healthier when we let go of how things used to be or how we think they should be and dive right into unknown mystery filled with potential. You can’t recycle the old year – it is worn out. Time to shed it, like tattered clothing and put on a brand new wardrobe.
Joseph Campbell wrote, “Trying to hang on to youth, trying to hang on to what was really great twenty years ago, throws you totally off. You’ve got to go with it and see the abundance that’s in the new thing. If you hang on to the old thing, you will not experience the new.”
Good word to ponder: ABUNDANCE.
Abundance gives me hope for this next year and next decade. 
How do you feel about the coming new year?

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Filed Under: Seasonal, spiritual lessons

Comments

  1. blankJean Wise says

    January 7, 2011 at 12:03 pm

    I sure like the word abundance. Gives me a more positive attitude toward all things – even the future.

  2. blankKaren says

    January 6, 2011 at 9:27 pm

    Jeanie, I like that, “if you hand on to the old thing, you will not experience the new.” Me, I’m ready for surprises this year.

  3. blankPhather Phil Malmstrom says

    January 6, 2011 at 6:14 pm

    You’re exactly right Jean, we can’t let the past weigh us down going forward. God brings us new life and a fresh start each day, which should be reveled in.

    “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

    Have a Blessed Day!

  4. blankAlida says

    January 6, 2011 at 4:13 pm

    I will turn 48 this year and as I move closer to 50 I get excited about discovering more of who I am and what God has made me capable of.

    I am excited about this year. We are in a new country for us and our ministry here is just four months old and everything looks hopeful for 2011!

    Joy and Blessings to you in 2011! I look forward to reading more from you!

  5. blankKindred Heart Writers says

    January 6, 2011 at 3:16 pm

    Jean, You will love the 60’s! I speak from experience and so far the 70’s are looking real good too. 🙂 The secret is to enjoy the day and know that God and you can do whatever it takes for the day. I am so looking forward to 2011 and beyond. What great plans God must have for you. Love you Clella

Healthy Spirituality – a sacred space to nurture your faith, grow closer to God, and belong to a community, walking together on life’s journey. This blog is written by author, speaker and retreat leader Jean Wise

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