Resolute - Low Bars

By now some of our best intentions for 2009 could be gone. A low bar for you may be a high bar for me. So, among other things, I have two issues to address in this new year.

1) Stop drinking out of the milk jug. One of my dirty little secrets . . . My oldest daughter, Anna, busted me early this week for drinking out of the milk jug. I am not sure she can accept the fact that as a man, drinking out of the milk jug reflects my desire to save the environment. Think about the paper cups and glasses I am saving. My decision to swig could have a positive affect on our environment for 500 years. First person I ever saw do it was Granny Street over 45 years ago. She was way ahead of her time. But, family is more important so I will quit.

2) Start treating our cat, Lilly, better. Again, maybe a man thing. For someone who can't articulate all that well, she controls conversation and decisions in our lives. She is overweight and no one cares. She is lazy. She uses our new couch for a scratching post and no one cares. With no expectations, no accountability, I struggle a bit with that relationship. But, Lilly rules. I need to accept that fact. Besides, serial killers often mistreat animals in their early years. So, I try to pet Lilly once a day reflecting my desire not to be a serial killer. If I become one I know Lilly could be a early victim. Awkward? Yes but . . . it is getting easier.

A low bar for you may be a high bar for me. Maybe that is okay. You can advise and support me out of your strengths and experience. I can refuse to stay where I am. I can commit to new and better, whatever that means.

One reason we fail is that we think in leaps instead of baby steps. Losing 10% of you current weight is proven to make you healthier. Exercising 20 minutes a day, three days a week will matter. Spending 7 minutes with God, every day, if it is better than what you are doing now, will make a difference. So, move on. Set a goal. One you can reach. Pet the cat. Walk past that tempting . . . ummm . . . milk jug. You and those around you will enjoy the results!