Here we are, several months into 2012 and I’m just wondering – how are those New Year’s Resolutions going?
I didn’t make any. I started out the year behind, having gotten sick at Christmas and staying that way through most of January. Next came a cold sore and a stomach bug. Oh the joys of it all!
By the time mid-February arrived, I realized that all I’d done was hold my ground. And, considering the challenges I’d faced, that actually felt like something.
Then I read this Japanese proverb,“Fall down Seven times, get up Eight!”
I laughed and thought, “Now that’s something I can do!”
I can get back up.
We all make plans and set goals. Sometimes we’re successful and sometimes we’re not. Sometimes our best laid plans are dashed by illnesses, job changes or other unforeseen circumstances. Setbacks are normal; perfection isn’t.
Whatever it is you’re trying to change, know this: The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. (Lao Tzu).
So many of us are trying to accomplish the same things: Lose weight. Eat better. Watch less TV. Read more. Save money. Go to bed earlier. Quit smoking. De-stress. Exercise regularly. Go to church again. Etc. Etc. Etc.
Whatever it is, when you stumble, just get back up again.
I will if you will.
“Did you just fall?”
“No, I attacked the floor”
“Backwards?”
“I’m freakin’ talented.”
- Anonymous
I think I must have what you had at Christmas…. going on two weeks now. I didn’t know a cold could linger this long….
When I get well, I’ll start again working on: eating better, walking every morning….
Thanks for the reminder, MJ!
Oh no, Dianna. Well .. I hope you’ve been thoroughly checked out by a Doctor. And I know you’re an avid walker; feel better soon!
MJ
I didn’t make any resolutions, either, so I kept them all. It makes me feel awesome!
Glad you’re up again!
I like how you think, Elyse (no resolutions …) MJ
Oh, this is one of my best talents! I’m persistent! I think that’s the same thing as failing, or stopping, or getting sidetracked and having to begin again. I think about sustainability in my life…it is challenging to maintain new habits, or difficult ones! ~ Sheila
Sustainability: such a great word
It was warm(er) here today so I took a nice long walk with old dog right after work – perfect 
MJ
You made me laugh with the little quote at the end.
Also, I think holding your ground IS an accomplishment and worthy of resolution status, especially in today’s world.
You know, you do make a good point
. Still standing is something .. hee hee! MJ
I just finished a little novel called “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. It’s fable based about following your dreams. Have you heard of it? Fantastic book, I really liked it a lot..It’s one of those books that’s easy to read again and again. The “fail seven times get up eight” was mentioned in the book…I hadn’t ever heard that before and now…twice w/you mentioning it.
Have a beautiful day!
~d.
I will check it out; thanks for the tip, D!
MJ
Gosh, MJ, the wisdom in this enormous! You have a deal, my friend. I will get back up–always!
Hugs,
Kathy
Ya ya!
MJ
I didn’t make any so I think I’m good!
You are right on the $$, Darla
Cheers!
MJ
I didn’t make any either, so I’m good too!
Yay on you, MJ!
MJ
Glad to hear you are back! You have been blogging very religiously so kudos there. I bet if you made a list of your “successes” for the first nine weeks of the year you would be surprised. On another note, You can heal your life, by Louise Hay (amazing book) would suggest all your illnesses are self imposed, you are blocking something, running or hiding…check out the book. Here’s to good health and happiness and just “being”.
You know, I have that book around here somewhere … and she may be on to something. I do hold back on what I’m really thinking … a lot.
Thanks for the reminder
MJ
I do not make resolutions but maybe if I did it would serve me well to resolve only “to get back up.”
Hope spring brings health and wellness to you
Now that’s a resolution I can stick with
I hope spring brings you only health, wellness & joy 
Cheers, Bella!
MJ
some days, curling up right on the floor is the best it’s going to be…
i’ll get up tomorrow. if there’s something good to eat….
There is something to be said about embracing the floor … Cheers, Coop!
MJ
If we stuck to all of our resolutions, what would we resolve to do next year?
It’s almost imperative to leave something undone. That’s my story anyway and I’m sticking to it! LOL.
You have made a most excellent point, Renee
MJ
Once again, you’ve taken a common frustration and given it a positive spin and resolution. You’re the most glass-half-full person I know and you inspire me!
Aww… thanks, Terri. You are too kind. The thing is, I know darn well if I’m struggling with these things, there surely are more who are with me than not!
Cheers MJ
I’m focusing, just can’t make things happen as quickly as I’d like!
I know what you mean … keep on keepin’ on
MJ
It’s a deal, MJ. I’ll continue getting up, and you continue getting up. Meanwhile, I’d like to start going to bed earlier…. alas, it is already 10pm, and I am still catching up on old posts. I’ll start going to bed earlier tomorrow.
here’s what I did: I made a deal with myself that one weeknight I’d go to be extra early. Before you know it, that might turn into 2 nights. What a difference it makes
MJ
Such a great post. I was laid low for about a month after Christmas too. On the bright side, it’s so great to feel healthy again! -kate
indeed it is! MJ
That Lao Tzu quote has been a favorite of mine for many years. And I completely agree with you. I don’t make resolutions. I decide to do something and just do it. And if I fall, I get back up again. Great post!
Thank you, Leah. It feels good to be back up again
MJ