2009. It’s over. Was it a good year? It really depends on how you look at it…
We had some pretty incredible experiences this past year. We performed on a cruise to Mexico, and spent part of our summer touring Canada. We did shows in Alaska, along with some snow-mobiling and extreme sledding. And we wrapped up the year with a one month tour all over the country of Thailand. That doesn’t even include the TONS of events we were a part of right here in the continental United States.
When I think about those parts of the year, it’s hard not to smile at the fun we had, the friends we made, and the memories we created. But at the same time, there were parts of ‘09 that felt like hell was unleashed on earth. Unfortunately, Katie and I got burned a lot this past year, by a lot of different people, and we went through the most difficult season of life I’ve experienced so far. From having our trust betrayed by others, to being cheated, times were hard, and we’re still recovering from a lot of it.
I know it’s finished and in the past. That means it’s time to move forward, because there isn’t anything you or I can do to go back and change anything. Also, the reality is, no matter how bad things seemed for me, I’m still incredibly blessed. The same is true for you. But I do believe there’s value in reflecting on the past year, purely in an effort to learn about moving forward into the future.
The evaluation of my 2009, like yours, really depends on my perspective. Sure, it was the hardest year of my life so far. But as a result of that, I also learned more about myself than I ever have, grew more as a person than ever before, and developed closer, more genuine friendships than during any other time of my life. Also, I have never found myself more motivated, and there are some incredible ideas and projects that have been birthed out of moments of need and desperation. Much of that would never have happened if it weren’t for the bumps, or even better, the massive “pot holes” along the way.
It’s this time of the year that many of us start making resolutions, setting goals, and dreaming big dreams — including me. We do everything we can to become optimistic about what a new year might bring. We ask for blessing on our lives, pray for good health, and hope for the best, while also hoping that the bad moments are over. Naturally, I don’t want to go through any of the garbage we went through in 2009, but I’m learning that I should probably just go ahead and put conflict on my calendar. Everyone I know is either in a crisis, coming out of a crisis, or going into a crisis. We can’t avoid it. Life happens. And sometimes, it doesn’t happen the way we planned.
So will bad things happen again in 2010?
Maybe. It’s pretty likely. But I’m not psychic. It’s just a pretty obvious prediction! And that doesn’t make me a pessimist either…I’m as optimistic as they come. I’ve just learned that my life is not defined by the trials I face, but how I respond to them, the attitude I have, and the character I display. And when you have that perspective, you realize that when problems do come up, regardless of how they might make you feel at first, it really isn’t the end of the world.
Should you hope for the best for this new year? Of course! But that doesn’t mean you can’t go ahead and expect some challenges. It might be healthy to go ahead and anticipate that they’re going to happen, and that they’re out of your control. It’ll keep from being totally surprised. However, when adversity comes, don’t throw in the towel and label it “the year from hell.” It seems that’s the natural tendency by the majority. (I definitely fall into that temptation.) Instead of thinking, “Oh no, not again,” recognize each hurdle as an opportunity to grow. I know…easier said than done, right?
In the Bible, a guy named James said it this way: “Consider it pure joy when you experience trials of many kinds, because the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” Oh if only James would have written, “IF you experience trials,” or “To those of you who will experience trials.” But no. He wrote “When.”
Indeed, my faith has been tested this past year. But perseverance has been developed. It’s never fun when you’re in the midst of the trials, but looking back, you’re always better because of them. So bring it on 2010! I’m ready! Are YOU?
If not, go ahead and accept the fact that you’ll likely face challenges. Just accepting it in advance is strangely a huge relief. Now, take a deep breath, and smile at the fact that with God’s help, you’ll get through whatever comes your way. Got it? Now smile again, because by this time next year, you’ll be shaped, molded, and better because of it. Seriously…go ahead…smile. Because when you look at it that way, this coming year will be amazing no matter what.
Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to 2010…
Tags: bj harris, Harris, james 1, new years resolutions
As for your triumphs in 2009 I celebrate with you. As for the difficulties I also share that burden. I don’t know why over the last year but I have really kept up with you and Katie. It has been probably YEARS since we had you come and minister at the last church I was at. Just this year I felt a pull to pray and do what I can (VIA internet) to encourage you.
Isn’t there times in our walk where we want to say “Et tu, Bruté?” To be totally honest I have been there. Those who we should trust the most tend to hurt us the most. As a minister I have seen times where it was if we acted more worldly and cruel than the world. Why is that? Well I don’t know the true answer to that. I see Jesus at a time where even his best friends treated him like a leper. They denied even knowing him. But he never lost hope in them. He knew they were going to be great ministers of the gospel. He even encouraged them after his resurrection. With the words “Peter do you love me???” I see his faith in them. I think I may have got the answer to it all…”Feed My Sheep”.
Harris you and Katie go out there against all odds and Feed God’s Sheep. You have been doing that for years and you will never truly see the impact this side of heaven. I am certain there are many that are and will be in heaven due to the fact that you let God use you. I am also certain you will both hear “Well Done”.
I hope you take some courage in my words as imperfect as they are.