’Tis the season to make resolutions, firm decisions to do or not do. The Babylonians, an ancient culture who were located in present-day Iraq approximately 3700 years ago, initiated this annual practice. While it has taken various forms throughout the ages, the underlying concept is self-improvement. A new year signifies a clean slate, a new beginning, and therefore is a good time to reflect on what is working and what is not, and to correct past mistakes by making a commitment to follow a better way.
The bottom line is that we’re not satisfied. Something is off. And when I look at the top 10, and even the top 25, resolutions made, I note that we’re treating symptoms and not the root cause of our dissatisfaction. With sadness, but not surprise, I reflect that getting to know one’s self more intimately and truly is not on the list.
Like 45% of Americans, I chased and cherished many of the top 10 desires: lose weight, get organized, spend less, save more; stay fit and healthy; learn something exciting. You get the picture. Only 8% of those making resolutions succeed. Why? “Logical” explanations are plentiful: resolutions aren’t specific enough, or there are too many changes at once, or goals are unrealistic, to mention a few. For many years I deluded myself with those explanations. Even when I was successful in achieving what I resolved, something else would rear its ugly head and command my attention for a “fix.”
I finally recognized I was treating effects, not causes. Without diving deeper within myself, my thought processes, or my beliefs, I would endlessly be chasing my tail. Resolutions fail because they don’t reach the heart of our discontent. When we get right down to it, what we consciously or unconsciously think we lack and can’t get enough of, or deserve, is love. Call it what you will, but that’s what it is.
I’m a bottom-line gal who loves simplicity…and results. It wasn’t until I embraced the notion that no matter how a problem presents itself, whatever form it takes, however minor or significant, at the core is a belief rooted in fear. Fear is false evidence that appears to be real. My fear occurs when I believe something that is not true, when I’ve forgotten that my true nature is love. Whenever I am feeling a bit sad, uneasy, or anxious—anytime I do not feel happy or at peace—it’s actually my opportunity to remember and recommit to a better way. I can resolve to see differently. Every single day, many times throughout the day, all year long, I have a clean slate and a chance to correct mistakes in my thinking. Self-improvement at the level of cause, not effect.
A Course in Miracles encourages that we “make this year different by making it all the same.” It asks that we “invest in truth, and let it work in peace” for “love asks only that you be happy, and will give you everything that makes for happiness.”
The results I’ve experienced by following this path inspire and motivate me to stay the course. So as I enter 2017, my resolution, or firm decision, for the New Year is the same as it is every day, and as it is for every problem I encounter: that I see through the eyes of love. For, in truth, that’s all we need.
January 1, 2017
Marguerite LaDue
Gary says
Perfect! Wishing all that love and peace for you this year. Stay the course.
Marguerite LaDue says
Thank you Gary. Your encouragement, support and friendship has helped me get on course and stay on course through many dark nights of the soul. I am forever grateful. xoxoxo
Juliette Andrews says
Happiness and joy with a mix of love for you dear marguerite now and always.
Marguerite LaDue says
What a lovely blessing Juliette! Thank you! xoxo
Jean says
What an inspiring guide to start the new year. Thank you for reminding me of fundamental needs in life. I will spend the first day of the year thinking about your message.
Marguerite LaDue says
Am happy Jean that my words gave you something to reflect upon. A fundamental need, frequently overlooked, is one of contemplation and an honest seeking for truth within one’s heart. I’m grateful that you are willing to give that gift to yourself and that my words helped inspire that. I love your beautiful light. xoxoxo
Mary Hollis says
Well put my friend,i love you.Happy new year to you.
Marguerite LaDue says
Thank you Mary! Am so grateful for your friendship, encouragement and love. xoxoxo
Susan Holzer says
Perfect! Absolutely the truth. And you teach us every day-thank you.
Marguerite LaDue says
So glad this resonated with you Susan! I’m simply a scout who checks out the territory and let’s you know it’s safe to travel this path :-)) Much love to you xoxoxo
Judy says
A good way to start the year!
Marguerite LaDue says
Happy New Year Judy! May your year be filled with opportunities, and your decisions, to shine your love and light in the world. xoxoxo
Sabrina Tanner says
How well put. I made a resolution this year, different than all others before…..To share at least one silly (happy) moment or good laugh each day with my husband, who is my best friend. Simple but important to both of us. Love is truly the answer!
Marguerite LaDue says
Dear Sabrina the ability to laugh and be silly with abandon is a sure sign love is present. What a lovely way to practice and remember love! Thank you for sharing. xoxoxo
Matisun says
Wow sis this is wonderful! I love how you get to the heart of things- may we all rest in Love…..
Marguerite LaDue says
For sure we all rest in Love, but to remember this truth we need to want love above all else. Simple? Yes. Easy? No. But it’s the best and most rewarding path in life 🙂 I love you fellow journeyman xoxoxo
Sylvia Bertram says
Happy New Year Marguerite,
Have read all of your writings and appreciated so much of what you have said, from the heart.
I was reflecting on what I want for 2017 and then read this post. You are so right on target. I was feeling discontent and wanted to address that issue. It is always wonderful when what you are seeking appears in ways you did not expect.
Thank you my friend for this blessing,
Sylvia
Marguerite LaDue says
Oh Sylvia I am simply delighted that my words found a place in your heart! Yes isn’t it wonderful the way what we need shows up in disguise and at the perfect time? Happens all the time it’s just that sometimes we’re more receptive than others and that’s what helps us recognize it. Thank you for reading my blogs and writing to me and for seeking the light within yourself. I’m grateful that in some small way I’m part of your journey and you part of mine. With love. xoxoxo
Keith Liimatta says
Marguerite,
Once again so nicely written. It’s a nice way to live each day love is truly the answer.
keith xxxooo
Marguerite LaDue says
Thank you sweetheart. Love is our natural state and when we truly connect with it life becomes effortless, peaceful, meaningful and we can be the calm in the center of the storm. I’m addicted to it!! xoxoxo