Oh, birthdays. Some of us have enjoyed a large number of these days. Others have endured many more. Too many people only encountered a few.
But my number of years continues rising. And my number of lessons learned does also.
I’ve written books about suggested guidelines. I’ve spoken about them. I wish I’d wisely followed all the lessons I’ve been taught. If I did, I’d be a much better man than I am. For this blog on my birthday, I’ll mention a few.
These are very important to me. Imagine what this world would be like if we all obeyed them.
* Love everyone. No matter how they act or what they believe or what they’ve done, love them. Don’t approve of behavior or deny damaging addictions. Speak against wrong. But love everyone every day.
* Forgive. Not only those who ask for forgiveness or realize they’ve done wrong. Forgive, refusing to hold anything against anyone. Forgiveness, like love, is not a feeling. It’s a decision to no longer hold something against someone else.
* Talk to someone. A friend. A counselor. A mentor. A pastor. A life coach. Someone who will listen, ask open ended questions, and help you identify deep inner hurt. Talk to someone who listens well, loves deeply, and is there for you. This can help with the forgiveness, also.
* Begin and end each day with thankful thoughts. Notice the good. Appreciate the often ignored. Write them down. Thank God and other people. Smile, nod, and give thanks.
* Dream big. As we work to be faithful in every day responsibilities, let’s imagine making a large difference in this hurting world.
Today, what I want for my birthday is to become better at each of these actions. I’ll try.
Will you join me?
I’m in Pastor Chris!
Such great suggestions. The first two are difficult but if we follow the example of Jesus it is very possible.
Thanks!
Happy birthday, Friend Chris! Your friendship has meant a lot to me over the years since we first met over a writing assignment. Enjoy family and friends in your celebration today. By the way, all you have said is right on. These principles form the basis of the ministry I am a part of, Celebrate Recovery!
Good word, Pastor.
These guidelines are great, I believe that if one follows these they will live a good life as a great human being. Loving everyone is key, if there is a disagreement but if you treat the individual with opposing views with respect rather then disrespect the outcome will be 10x better. Forgive, one must not carry around a grudge or dead weight it will only make things harder moving forward. Talking to someone, this one is important because if you keep negative thoughts bottled up inside of you then eventually your going to blow and it wont be pretty. Having positive thoughts, your mind is a powerful thing so if you fill it with positives rather than negatives you’re going to be alright. lastly, dream big ! and when things get tough remember why you had the dream in the first place and use that as your motivation