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