The young girl’s face was flush with joy and excitement as she eagerly awaited The Countdown at Times Square. Her proud father stood next to her, frigid cold but beaming from ear to ear. On national TV she told us that she had begged her dad to take her to NYC for New Year’s Eve. His response: “Make straight A’s for two years in a row and I’ll do it.” Deal made. Promises kept. Sweet.
Though I’ve never had any desire to ring in the New Year with thousands of kazoo-blowing celebrants, I appreciate how meaningful the experience can be. Last night I was especially moved by this young lady’s determination to keep her part of the bargain and by her father’s determination to keep his. Their brief interview caused me to reflect upon the promises I’m making for 2011. Will I keep them?
New horizons. January 1st is an excellent time to ponder questions such as: What do I aim to accomplish? How will I be held accountable? How will I remain motivated? It’s a time to be humbly grateful for the person I am today and genuinely excited about the person I’ll be tomorrow.
2010 was a year rich in relationships, accomplishments, and growth. With the support of my faith, family, friends, colleagues, church, and coaches, 2011 will be even better. I know I won’t be successful alone. For me to be able to keep my promises, I must seek and embrace the help of others.
On December 31, 2011, I fully intend to say, “Promises kept. Sweet!”
How ‘bout you? Will you join me?
Warm wishes for a joyful, purposeful, successful 2011,
Photo by Flickr (Porto Bay Events)
Fabulous example and great challenge. I love the idea of framing it in terms of promises instead of resolutions. I’m not big on those but will ponder some potential promises and set out to fulfill them this year.
Thank you, Diane. Let’s support each other!!!!
Love,
Jory
Commitments are hard to keep especially as we try to change major parts of our lives, from living our purpose, to listening and obeying God’s plan for us. Having partners who also have a vested interest in our success is key. This is a great example of accountability and celebrating our successes. Keep up the inspiration Jory, we all need it.