When I was a young child I did not like doing certain chores. I would often go to great efforts to make it appear that I had completed my task when it would have been much easier to do it right the first time. I would have to go back and “redo” things. My parents would say “if you take care of it now you don’t have to worry about it”. I have said something similar to my own children telling them they will also have more free time to do other things.
I believe that there are times in life where we put more effort in trying to explain why we can’t do something instead of just getting started on what we need to do. I have reflected on this much over the past year especially as it pertains to the gospel and life.
In his early teen years our oldest son decided to read the scriptures everyday for a year. When he had completed that goal it had become such a part of him that it was just part of his day. It is even more of a benefit to him now as he is serving a full time mission. At that time, I didn’t want him to be the only one reading every day instead of most days, so, I started out small – just a month, then two until I had read everyday for a year. It really makes difference in my day.
Asking myself what else do I need to take care of now I realized that ” Taking care of things now” fits in many situations. If we repent now, forgive now, read our scriptures each day – now, Keep the Sabbath Day Holy – now, show more kindness now, help someone now, follow the promptings of the spirit now, etc. we are blessed. We have more “freedom”. There is protection in obedience to the laws of the gospel. We gain more knowledge when we study the scriptures but most importantly we become more Christ like.
I generally don’t make New Years resolutions just adjustments along the way. However, my goal this year is to take care of more things now. To take care of what is essential first, to enjoy family and friends more and the rest will fall in line.
Happy New year to you and your family!