Looking
Toward Tomorrow
By John W. Vander Velden
Soon I begin another year.
I look forward to 2024. But
it is my hope that I will change more than the calendar that hangs on the
bedroom wall. Each of us has our own opinion of the year just completed. Many
are pleased to see 2023 in their wake. But when I look back, I see more than
the disappointments and difficulties I have faced; I see the accomplishments
and great times as well. I have grown these past twelve months. I have had the
opportunity to meet many amazing people in 2023. Each year is made up of plus
and minuses and this year is no exception.
For God had given me 365
days, and I was obligated to do what I could with that gift. I have tried to
move forward in my own way. Though my age limits some the things I once did
easily, I live by a very different schedule than years gone by. That new
schedule allows me to work on new and different projects, and I do.
These new projects help
me to remain optimistic in a world that only emphasizes the negative. Not that
optimism comes easy. Not that optimism is my natural reaction. But because I
know God is in charge. I know His fingers are in not only my life but the world
in general. This knowledge makes my optimism possible, even when much negativity
is tossed my way. For as I said, I have been given an incredible gift, my life,
and to focus on what cannot be while ignoring what can, does not pay the Giver
the complement He deserves.
God does not promise me
that I will see the end of 2024, so I focus on the chances and opportunities
each day gives. The hours should not to be mired in the muck of what ifs, but rather grasped firmly as I
work on the tasks presented, and use what strength remains. For though I am no
longer in my youth, there is yet some strength in this man, and I must use that
strength to move forward each day.
So as I approach this new
year, let me look toward the future, with eyes wide open. But always
remembering that life gives good times and times that I will feel in the end
were not so good. It is for me to face each new day with confidence, for there
are things God wishes me to do...
And God has plans for you
as well!
May God bless 2024...
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