Striving to Go Deeper

I've been journaling about my expectations for 2009 and I find I don't end up thinking about specific goals and dreams, but about who I am and how I have begun to go deeper on my faith journey and my desire, with God's help to continue that. Here's a picture into my thoughts...

Try to talk less, but start listening more with a heart that is wide open. Watch more sunsets, gaze at more full moons and witness more sunrises from the shore's edges. Savor laughter. Enjoy the little ordinary moments of each day, which are really miracles. Breathe in fresh air. Let all your senses be exhillarated in the amazing creation around you.

Put the cares of yesterday away, except for what you learned from them. Forge ahead to new experiences, never forgetting the past's worth, but with a new passion for all that is yet to be. Yet, rejoice in the present moment, with all it's mysteries.

Live in love, leaving fear behind. Live in hope, instead of petty worries that add nothing to the value of your life. Take that unbridled joy that you know is God-given and put despair away. Live in acceptance, instead of isolation.

Learn to say, "Have your way, Lord" and mean it sincerely. Open yourself to the plans God has for you and your life, acknowledging that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. And when you think a dream has died, just remember God's dreams for you may look a bit different than your own--both in substance and timing.

Continue to speak the truth in love, free of judgements to find a way to peace and acceptance. Peel away everyevery mask that holds you hidden away. In so doing, finally reveal your wholly authentic self. With God's help, bring yourself out of the shadows. Honor the darkness, but celebrate the light. In fact, remember that because you have known darkness you can value the light in a brighter illumination.

Love no matter what. Honor and love all people to find the way to unity. And forgive--not forget--but forgive. In so doing set your heart and soul free. And don't forget to forgive yourself.

In all things never forget the cross--the assurance of what a precious, worthy Child of God you are. Don't focus on being everything to everyone. But live in joy giving all you are as a gift back to God. To be used for one thing: His Glory.