Something Deeper

2019 is upon us and I suspect that sometime in the last month or so, some neuron or another began firing off reminders that it's time for the next Word-of-the-Year.

I usually don't consciously consider any focal point of this 'Word'.  Normally, it just seems to smack me in the head when I'm reading, watching or experiencing something having nothing at all to do with this exercise.  It almost appears random, but I don't really believe it's chance at all.

A number of months ago, I wrote a 4 part series on Muscle Memory and Gratitude.  I did research both externally and internally.  It was about the importance of being grateful.  It was about the benefits experienced when we make it part of who we are.  This was mostly good stuff and I learned a bit about why it's important and what I can do to increase my default position in thought and action to first be grateful.

Our Treasures

In a secure garage, the antagonist states,

“My entire life was spent on these cars.  It is a constant reminder of where I’ve come from and where I want to go.”  

(The Rare Vehicle Garage Clip from the movie Overdrive)

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With only 22 miles on the odometer, this Volkswagen Beetle has not been driven since 1964 and is currently offered at $1,000,000.

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How about a bottle of Macallan Whiskey?  Well, you’re a little late and about $1.1 Million short. Perhaps then, Macallan Rare Cask. You probably won't be out much more than $300.00.

Like Riding a Bike

When was the last time you rode a bike? Nobody is asking you to take a little adventure today.  But even if this was the goal, you would not fear because years ago, you mastered this challenge. Sure, the handle bars might shake a little and you might not travel in a ruler-precise straight line for the first few seconds but you’ll quickly remember and begin riding as well as you did the last time you tried.

This is good news!  On to bigger and better things, then.

Seasonal Apathy

During the holidays, we’re exposed to constant and repetitive commercials.  Maybe not because we're a captive audience (like the Super Bowl), but more because we’re captive to holiday spending.  I gave up the search for how much advertising might cost for our favorite holiday movies; It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, Home Alone, Miracle on 34th Street, The Grinch, White Christmas and more.  But I’m sure that the marketing teams analyze average view rates and are charged accordingly.

This article began when I recently saw the Hershey's Christmas Kisses commercial.  It was surprising to me that it was still being aired.

The "R" Factor

While listening to a talk a few weeks ago, I heard something about the fact that our prayers frequently center on the concept of rescue. It was pointed out that following Jesus isn’t really about rescue but more about redemption.  The presented premise was focused on the concept that in the midst of troubles we are being shaped by a redeeming fire to 'strengthen our steel' which enables us to handle the plans God has for us.

First, I recognized that my prayer life rarely considers that God is already working in and around me - always for good.

Second, I infrequently recognize that He uses difficult circumstances to redeem mind and heart, thereby making me a little more like I was meant to be.

Then, I got a little quirky.  It happens.