Page 32 - Cityview Jan-Feb 2017

rom thPublisherill this be the year for you? The year that brings that monumental change that you know is within you? Or, like many people in our modern society, will you continue downthe path of emotional emaciation, allowing those around you to suck the very life essence from within you?For most of us, getting some outside perspective is good. A retreat away from the everyday stress of life might be a good starting point. And for all of you who immediately say you are too busy, I would respond that you are the ones most in need. But even so, what you bring back may not be enough. You will need to guard your newfound strength lest it be sucked away no sooner than you return to everyday life. But what if there was a di erent end to that predictable story? What if you could have anything you want? Really, anything.That may sound like little more than a whimsical platitude, but before you dismiss the idea allow me toshare some life experience. I have o en found myself in life situations that felt trapping. Like many of us, maybe even most, my discontent was shared in the form of whining.The whining, poor-pitiful-me self is perceived by the world around us as a beaten and cowering dog, begging to be loved and willing to accept whatever crumbs fall from the table. This never works and either leads to addictions geared toward escaping the pain of society or by attracting people into your life that will take advantage of your weakness.Sometimes, life situations just at piss you o . Using brute force is certainly another option. Many of us have triedthat only to nd pain and devastation le in our wake. The paradigm of the bully is not a sign of strength but rather weakness and is truly a miserable way to live.So could there be another way? A third way? I recently took some time to read some of Bryan Ward’s work on his website thirdwayman.com. Bryan opens his homepage with the premise that there is a third way, one of strength and love. I think Bryan really captures this concept, and I highly recommend taking time to read some of his articles.In addition to putting some new and inspiring information into your brain, you need to be sure the people in your life are truly your mentors and cheerleaders. Inthat regard I am truly blessed to have the foundation of a wonderful family. Every day I quote something my parents taught me or an experience they lovingly took the time to share. They are truly my heroes. So a quick note to all of you parents out there: no matter your age, spend as much time with your children as possible—you both need it.I am also blessed with a woman who truly loves me. Angelique, my own personal guru of willpower, is a never- ending source of inspiration. I o en hear her say, “What do you really want?” She says it lovingly and with the intention of doing anything in her power to help me achieve what I want. Angelique takes time to compliment my strengthsand applaud my successes. She has yet to release her book (coming soon) but does take the time to share an article each week on Facebook. You can nd her under “Will You Guru.” Angelique reintroduced me to the concept of properly setting my goals and thus avoiding the waste of my time on that which was not on my “bucket list.”Here is a list to help you with your own resolutions::1. Seek to serve. Accept who you are and love the fact that you have a lot to offer.2. Stop doing anything that is harming your body, like excessive drinking, smoking, and eating processed sugar. Start exercising every day. Eat organic.3. Decide what you really want out of life. Make a written list; start with 25 items minimum.4. Under each of the items write down why you want that thing. Be very clear about your reasons as they will help shore up the foundation of your desires.5. List at least one way to fulfill each desire on the list. 6. Set a deadline for when you will achieve each goal.Then write a supplemental list of 10 things thatbring you joy.7. If you believe in God, take time to pray; if you don’t,pray twice as much.8. Read something inspiring every day and thenmeditate on that for at least 15 minutes.9. Take time to show your gratitude to all of thosearound you and commit random acts of kindness. 10. Post your dream list in plain sight and read itcompletely twice a day.I hope this helps you make some great ones of your own. Best of luck in the new year!Nathan SparksPublisher30JANUARY FEBRUARY 2017Photo by Angelique Medow