“Google SEO” and Google Business isn’t something that should scare us off the bat, I’m going to try and simplify as much of it as possible as we go here.
“Google SEO” is important for a local community church in South Africa (or really any organization) because it helps to increase the visibility of their website in search engine results. This can be especially important for a small, local church because it can help more people in the community discover their church and learn about the services and events they offer. Additionally, having a strong online presence can help to establish credibility and make it easier for people to get in touch with the church or learn more about it. Overall, Google SEO can be a useful tool for helping a local community church in South Africa reach a wider audience and connect with more people in their community.
Why is “Google Business” important for my local church?
Having a Google My Business listing can be beneficial for your local church in several ways:
Increased visibility: Having a listing on Google My Business can help your church’s website show up higher in search results when people search for churches in your area.
Connect with your community: Google My Business allows you to share information about your church, such as your service times, location, and contact information, making it easier for people in your community to find and connect with you.
Online presence: Having a listing on Google My Business can help to establish your church’s online presence and make it easier for people to learn about your church and the services you offer.
Customer reviews: Google My Business allows customers to leave reviews of your church, which can help to build credibility and establish your church as a trusted place of worship in your community.
Insights: The Google My Business dashboard provides insights about how people are interacting with your listing, such as how many people have viewed your listing and how they found it. This can help you understand the effectiveness of your online presence and make any necessary adjustments.
How to setup Google Business for my local church
To set up your church’s Google My Business listing, follow these steps:
Go to the Google My Business website (https://www.google.com/business/) and click “Start now” to begin the process of creating a listing.
Enter your church’s name and address. If your church has a physical location that is open to the public, you can also add your phone number and website.
Choose the category that best describes your church (e.g., “church,” “place of worship,” etc.) and add any additional information about your church that you would like to include (e.g., services offered, mission statement, etc.).
Verify your listing by choosing the option that is most convenient for you. This may involve receiving a postcard in the mail with a verification code, or verifying by phone or email.
Once your listing has been verified, you can begin to manage it by logging in to the Google My Business dashboard. From here, you can add photos, update your hours of operation, and respond to customer reviews.
I hope this help answer some of your questions around some “Google SEO” and how it links up with setting up your “Google Business”. Here is another article related to why SEO is so key in more depth.
You ask anyone who has run a race, hit the gym or finished an event, you wanna do that again? They will say “absolutely”, but if you ask them, you wanna do that again right now? They’ll say, “No thanks, gotta get some rest first…”
At its most basic level, resting for an activity refers to the idea of preparing oneself for an upcoming task or challenge. This might involve physical preparation, such as stretching or warming up before a workout or game, or it might involve mental or emotional preparation, such as taking a few deep breaths before a big presentation or calming oneself before a stressful meeting. Essentially, resting for an activity is about getting ourselves ready to take on whatever lies ahead.
In contrast, resting from an activity refers to the idea of taking a break after we have completed a task or challenge. This might involve physically resting our bodies after a workout or mentally decompressing after a long day at work. Resting from an activity is about allowing ourselves time to recharge and recover, both physically and mentally, so that we can be ready to tackle the next thing that comes our way.
So why is it important to differentiate between these two forms of rest as we start 2023?
For one thing, it helps us to be more mindful of our own needs and to be more intentional about how we care for ourselves. It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, and to push ourselves too hard without taking adequate time to rest and recharge. By recognizing the importance of both resting for an activity and resting from an activity, we can be more intentional about building rest into our lives in a way that allows us to be more resilient and better equipped to handle the challenges that come our way.
This is an idea that Brené Brown has explored in her work on vulnerability and wholehearted living. In her TED Talk on “The Power of Vulnerability,” Brown discusses the importance of cultivating a sense of belonging and connection in our lives, and how this requires us to be vulnerable and open to the ups and downs of life. But being vulnerable and open also requires us to take care of ourselves, to be mindful of our own needs and to practice self-compassion. This means taking the time to rest and recharge, both before and after the challenges that we face.
For Brown, resting is not just a matter of physical or mental recovery, but also a way to connect with ourselves and with the people around us. She writes, “Rest is not the absence of work. Rest is not the absence of striving. Rest is the presence of worth. It’s the presence of love and connection.” In other words, resting is about taking time to be present with ourselves and with others, and to recognize the inherent worth and value that we bring to the world. This requires us to be intentional about building rest into our lives, and to be mindful of when we need to rest for an activity and when we need to rest from an activity.
Here are a few ways to incorporate both resting for an activity and resting from an activity into your daily routine:
Take breaks between tasks: It’s important to allow yourself time to rest and recharge between tasks, particularly if you are working on something mentally or emotionally demanding. Taking breaks can help you to refocus and feel rejuvenated, rather than burnt out.
Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental recovery, so it’s important to prioritize getting enough sleep every night. This means establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and taking steps to create a sleep-friendly environment (such as keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet).
Engage in relaxation techniques: There are many different techniques that can help you to relax and recharge, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness practices. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you, and make time for relaxation on a daily basis.
Connect with others: Building connections with others is an important part of wholehearted living, and it can also be an important form of rest and recharge. Whether it’s spending quality time with friends and family, joining a social group, or participating in a hobby or activity that you enjoy, taking time to connect with others can be a great way to restore your sense of balance and well-being.
Prioritize self-care: Finally, it’s important to prioritize self-care in your daily routine. This might mean setting aside time for a hobby or activity that you enjoy, taking a relaxing bath or shower, or indulging in a favorite treat. Whatever it is that helps you to feel cared for and nourished, make sure to make time for it in your schedule.
Balance is so important in all of the ideas above, find your rhythm, find your pace, rest for and rest from various activities. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can be more intentional about resting for an activity and resting from an activity, and build more resilience and well-being into your life. Remember, rest is not just about physical or mental recovery, but also about cultivating a sense of connection and worth, and taking time to be present with yourself and those around you. By taking the time to rest, you can better prepare yourself for the challenges ahead and live a more wholehearted and fulfilling life.
A few days ago I was up early and a cold misty morning at Sardinia Bay was not the most auspicious of starts, but as I wrapped my red KWAY Jacket around me and trudged up the sandy dune (LOL if you know exactly what I mean), the sand was cold and the mist was thick. Even made it hard to see as the air was so moist… Can see more here about Sards.
I ran down the dune to get my feet warm and hit the water and it was freezing cold and so I just followed the shore and kept walking. Calm, windless, misty Sards. I made my way about 500 down the beach and just surround by mist, I saw these 3 Dark Horses in the distance. So I continued my way down the beach and got a very flat section of the ocean, a pond like, very flat swimming pool if you will. Ice cold water and perfect for a morning swim.
As they approached the shore, the group of horses standing at the water’s edge didn’t move, their dark coats glistening with the morning dew. They were majestic creatures, with powerful muscles rippling beneath their skin and eyes that seemed to penetrate my very soul. They just have so much presence and I was so nervous that I had interrupted their walk, that I was getting in the way somehow. So I asked one of the jockeys if everything is ok, if I should move or leave “their space”, if they wanna get in the water.
And she gently replied, “No please, them seeing you in the water is giving them the courage to consider getting in the water, as they never want to walk in water, ever. So this is amazing. Thank you.
So I asked nervously if I may approach the horses and she said I could…
I approached cautiously, not wanting to startle them, but as I drew near, one of the horses turned its head towards me and let out a soft whinny. I couldn’t help but smile at the greeting, and I reached out a hand to stroke the horse’s nose. To my surprise, the horse nuzzled my hand and I let out a contented sigh. I couldn’t believe it – these wild creatures seemed almost tame, as if they were waiting for me to arrive. (I know that sounds ridiculous…)
I spent the next 10 minutes walking with with the horses, marveling at their beauty and grace as they walked gently in the shallow water, almost to my knees at times. I had never felt such a strong connection with an animal before, and I knew that this was a moment I would always treasure. I felt Gale (more about that later and my YouTube channel coming soon) Story time with Dean and Gale, say, Dean if you’re brave enough, you will give other people the courage and bravery to also step into cold situations and take some risks for their dreams. And that’s all I hope to do here… Light a fire in your bones.
And then almost instantly, the jockey gestured to her friends and the horses turned around and they said good bye, and then I was alone, with what felt like the most Holy Moment just before sunrise… I quickly whipped of my clothes and dived into the freezing water, Goodness me what a wake up. Best. Feeling. Ever.
As I turned to head back home, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the magic of the natural world. It was moments like these that made me believe that there was still so much out there waiting to be discovered, and that life was full of endless possibilities. I realised then that goodness me I long for the wild, I long for the cold on my skin, I longed for the insecurity and unpredictability that the weather and the wild could produce.
As humans, we are hardwired to seek security and predictability. It’s a natural instinct that helps us feel safe and grounded in a rapidly changing world. But sometimes, following our dreams requires us to make scary, insecure decisions that challenge the status quo and push us out of our comfort zone. (And sometimes we need someone to show us that some things are possible…)
For many of us, the thought of taking a risk and stepping into the unknown is downright terrifying. We worry about failing, making mistakes, or being judged by others, the fear that maybe the water is too cold and I don’t know what I could find in the depths? These fears can hold us back and prevent us from pursuing our passions and living the lives we truly want.
But as Brene Brown says, “the only way to get to the other side of fear is to walk through it.” In other words, the only way to achieve our dreams is to embrace the fear and uncertainty that comes with making bold moves.
This doesn’t mean that we should blindly charge ahead into the open seas and hope for the best without considering the potential consequences. (I think of Frozen 2 here) It’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons and make informed decisions. But it does mean that we should be willing to take calculated risks and embrace the potential for failure as part of the journey.
Making scary, insecure decisions can also be an opportunity for growth and learning. When we face challenges and setbacks, we have the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and come back stronger. These experiences can help us develop resilience and build the courage to take on even bigger challenges in the future. one small step into the water turns into an open water swim turns into an icy swim in the arctic circle. My prayer is that your dreams would frighten and awaken you to your core.
But perhaps most importantly, making scary, insecure decisions allows us to live authentically and follow our hearts. It’s easy to get caught up in the expectations of others or the societal norms of what we “should” be doing. But when we make the brave choice to pursue our dreams, we are able to live a life that is true to ourselves and fulfill our unique purpose.
At 19 I started to play the guitar for our little local youth ministry in Benoni. (Yes I have photos and no I won’t share them, LOL) And I recall the bravery I summoned to perform for a small audience of like 20, even though it took a million wrong notes to find the right melody and key. I remember the insecure steps I took to my first job interview as I tried to impress the boss with all the “right” words”. I remember the strength I had to pull out of my self when I had to stand for something I believed in and no one stood up with me, leaving me without a job, but standing up for what I believe was right. I even remember the insecure teenager who knelt on his girlfriends kitchen floor and asked her to marry him.
Now, we seek clarity and stability, but the truth is they aren’t real. You know this to be true with in yourself.
So if you’re feeling scared or uncertain about making a big decision, remember that it’s okay to be afraid. It’s a natural part of the process. But don’t let your fear hold you back from chasing your dreams. Embrace the insecurity and take that first step towards making your dreams a reality. You never know where it might lead you…
I’ll come with a couple lines from my favourite band, Switchfoot. (Thanks Jon)
We found a way out The city takes everything it can But outside the crowds I can feel my lungs again
Born for the blue skies We’ll survive the rain Born for the sunrise We’ll survive the pain
Holding space for someone and giving someone space are two distinct concepts that are often conflated or used interchangeably, but they have significant differences in their meanings and implications on relationships. Here I want to explore these ideas like one would a forest, slowly and gently, watching where we step as to try and see the difference between these two terms and how they can be used effectively in our relationships and communication.
Holding Space VS Giving Space
First, let’s define each term. “Holding space” refers to the act of being present with someone in a non-judgmental and supportive way, without trying to fix or change their experience or emotions. (Men I know this seems impossible and that we want to FIX FIX FIX). It involves actively listening, offering empathy and understanding, and providing a safe and caring environment for the other person to process their feelings and thoughts. “Giving someone space,” on the other hand, means allowing that person the physical or emotional distance they need to deal with their own issues or feelings without interference or pressure. It can involve taking a step back and allowing the other person to have some solitude, or it can mean giving them the time and freedom to work through their emotions on their own. For some, this can be a very lonely and isolating experience. This is why it is so key for us to understand and see the difference in approaches here.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the two concepts, let’s explore the differences between them in more detail.
One key difference between holding space
One key difference between holding space and giving someone space is the level of involvement and engagement. When you hold space for someone, you are actively present and engaged with that person, offering support and understanding as they navigate their emotions. You are not trying to solve their problems or fix their feelings, but rather you are simply there to be a supportive and caring presence. THATS IT. On the other hand, when you give someone space, you are taking a step back and allowing that person the freedom and independence to work through their own issues. You may still be available for support and communication, sending message every once in a while, but you are not as actively involved in their emotional process.
Another difference between holding space and giving someone space is the level of emotional connection and intimacy. Holding space for someone involves creating a deep and meaningful connection with that person, where you are able to offer genuine empathy and understanding. This requires vulnerability and a willingness to be emotionally open and present with the other person. Giving someone space, on the other hand, involves allowing that person the freedom and independence to deal with their own emotions without interference. It may involve less emotional intimacy and connection, as you are not as actively involved in their emotional process. Here it is also important to take note of whether someone said “they need space” or if you have decided to just “give them space”…
Finally, the timing and context of holding space and giving someone space can also be different. Holding space is typically done in the moment, as a way of being present and supportive with someone who is struggling or dealing with difficult emotions. It is often used as a way of offering comfort and support in the face of adversity or crisis. Giving someone space, on the other hand, may be more appropriate in situations where the other person needs some time and distance to work through their own issues or emotions. It may involve taking a step back and allowing the other person some solitude (loneliness and solitude are two things not to be confused) or independence, in order to give them the time and space they need to process their feelings. (Once again, depending on who initiated which course of action).
The place of EMPATHY and VULNERABILITY…
In friendships, empathy and vulnerability are key ingredients that help to foster deep and meaningful connections. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, and it allows us to connect with others on a deeper level by putting ourselves in their shoes and seeing the world from their perspective. Vulnerability, on the other hand, involves being open and authentic with others, sharing our thoughts, feelings, and experiences even when it may be difficult or uncomfortable.
Both empathy and vulnerability are essential for building and maintaining strong and healthy friendships. Without empathy, it can be difficult to fully understand and support our friends, and we may struggle to connect with them on a deeper level. Without vulnerability, we may not feel comfortable opening up and sharing our true selves with others, which can prevent us from building meaningful and authentic relationships.
By cultivating empathy and vulnerability in our friendships, we can create safe and supportive environments where we can be honest and open with each other, and where we can offer genuine support and understanding to those we care about. Whether we are dealing with joy or sadness, success or failure, by embracing empathy and vulnerability, we can create friendships that are based on genuine connection and support.
So, for me coming out of some dark places and having to fight some memories that have turned into monsters, I really hope this distinction helps someone. I think the main difference between holding space and giving someone space is the level of involvement and engagement, the level of emotional connection and intimacy, and the timing and context in which they are used. Holding space involves being present and engaged with someone in a supportive and caring way, while giving someone space involves allowing that person the freedom and independence to work through their own issues and emotions. Both can be valuable and important in different situations, and understanding the distinction between them can help us navigate relationships and communication more effectively.
If 2020 taught us anything, is that New Years Resolutions and plans can go sideways very quickly, and that’s putting it lightly (Insert your 20 examples and reason why here…)
BUT!
As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” When it comes to achieving our long term goals, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that we need to take giant leaps in order to make progress. However, the reality is that consistent, daily action is what ultimately leads to success.
In this blogpost, we’ll explore six tips or ideas for keeping focus on your long term goals and taking consistent action towards achieving them on a daily basis. By following these guidelines, I hope that you can stay motivated and on track, no matter how big or challenging your goals may be. The bigger the better they say, or if your dreams don’t scare the hell out of you, they probably not big enough…
Clearly define your goals.
The first step to working on your long term goals on a daily basis is to clearly define what they are. What do you want to achieve in the long run? Be specific, and make sure your goals are measurable and achievable.
For example, instead of setting a goal to “lose weight,” set a specific goal to “lose 10 KG’s in the next six months.” or “deadlift 200kg by Christmas” (wink). This gives you a clear target to work towards, and allows you to track your progress along the way.
Break your goals down into smaller, actionable steps.
Once you have a clear understanding of your long term goals, it’s important to break them down into smaller, actionable steps. This will help you to see the progress you’re making and stay motivated as you work towards your ultimate objective.
For example, if your goal is to save R10,000 month for a down payment on a house, consider setting a monthly savings goal and tracking your progress. Or, if your goal is to become a published author, consider setting a daily writing goal and working towards it consistently. Every training session for a marathon starts with a few steps. A 5k turns into a 10k and a 10k turns into a half marathon…
Set daily, weekly, and monthly targets.
In addition to breaking down your long term goals into smaller steps, it can also be helpful to set daily, weekly, and monthly targets. This will help you to stay focused and motivated as you work towards your larger objectives.
For example, if your long term goal is to run a marathon, consider setting a daily running goal and tracking your progress. Or, if your goal is to learn a new skill, consider setting a weekly practice goal and working towards it consistently.
I like to break these goals into 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 3 months trackable ideas. (see no. 4)
Track your progress and adjust your strategy as needed.
As you work towards your long term goals, it’s important to track your progress and adjust your strategy as needed. This will help you to stay on track and make necessary course corrections as you go.
For example, if you’re trying to save money for that house, consider using a budgeting app or spreadsheet to track your spending and see where you can cut back. Or, if you’re working towards a fitness goal, consider using a fitness tracker or app to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your exercise routine.
Surround yourself with supportive and positive people.
Achieving our long term goals can be a challenging and lonely journey at times. That’s why it’s so important to surround ourselves with supportive people who will encourage and motivate us as we work towards our objectives.
Seek out friends, family members, or even a professional coach or mentor who can offer guidance and support as you work towards your long term goals. Having a strong support system can make all the difference when it comes to staying motivated and on track. Get a financial planner to help or get a gym partner who you know is waiting for you at gym at 05:00 to get yourself out of bed… Nothing worse than missing gym and having your gym partner have to fly solo…
Keep a positive attitude and focus on progress, not perfection.
As you work towards your long term goals, remind yourself that no plan is perfect, and that no road trip goes exactly according to plan. But on the road trip, keep your eyes on the road and allow yourself to take in the beauty that is on the road, don’t be afraid to stop for a minute and take a photo of the mountains you’re driving past on the way to your desired destination.
One step closer is one step closer. That’s all. Today, take another step. Tomorrow, try take a few more.
Hopefully these six simple ideas assist you in making 2024 a Good Year for you and your loved ones.
It was a beautiful autumn morning and Professor Elizabeth was standing at the front of her classroom, preparing to give her lecture on literary story telling. As she scanned the faces of her students, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. She loved teaching and there was nothing quite like the thrill of introducing her students to new ideas and helping them to develop their critical thinking story telling skills.
“Good morning, everyone,” Professor Elizabeth began. “Today, we’re going to be discussing the theme of love in literature. I want you to think about why certain characters love one another and what that love represents. To help you get started, I’m going to ask you to write a 500-word essay on the topic of Jack loves Jill.“
There was a murmur of excitement and confusion among the students as they grabbed their pens and notebooks, ready to take notes. Professor Elizabeth could see the wheels turning in their heads as they tried to come up with ideas for their essays.
“Now, I know this may seem like a daunting task at first,” Professor Elizabeth continued. “But I have complete confidence in all of you. I want you to really think about why Jack loves Jill. Is it because of her physical appearance? Is it because of her personality? Is it because of the way she makes him feel? Or is it something deeper, something that goes beyond the surface level? These are the kinds of questions I want you to explore in your essays.”
Professor Elizabeth paused for a moment to let her words sink in before continuing. “I know that some of you may be struggling to come up with ideas for your essays. So, to help you get started, I’m going to give you a few prompts to consider. First, consider the ways in which Jack and Jill’s relationship has evolved over time. Have they always been in love, or did their love grow over time? Second, think about the challenges that Jack and Jill have faced in their relationship and how they’ve overcome them. And finally, consider the role that outside influences, such as friends or family, have played in Jack and Jill’s relationship.”
As Professor Elizabeth spoke, her students scribbled furiously in their notebooks, taking down every word she said. She could see the excitement and determination in their eyes, and it filled her with a sense of pride. She loved watching her students grow and learn, and she knew that this assignment would be a great opportunity for them to do just that.
“I want you to take some time to think about your essays and come up with a solid outline before you start writing,” Professor Elizabeth concluded. “And remember, don’t be afraid to be creative and think outside the box. The most interesting essays are often the ones that take a unique perspective on the topic at hand. I can’t wait to read your finished essays and see what you all come up with. I want them on my desk first thing tomorrow morning…”
With that, Professor Elizabeth dismissed her class, and the students filed out of the room, buzzing with excitement and ideas for their essays. As she gathered her things and prepared to head home for the day, Professor Elizabeth couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. She knew that this assignment was going to be a challenging and rewarding one for her students, and she couldn’t wait to see what they came up with.
The next morning student after student, came in handing paper after paper until Steven came walking slowly to the Professors desk. With most of the class seated, Steven slowly approached her desk…
“Sorry to bother you Prof” Steven said in a gentle yet confident voice, “I know you said 500 words and this may be a little more”, and simply handed her a photograph, “but here is why Jack loves Jill…”
The raw real life meaning of Christmas can be found by examining the story of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus and the reality of their lives and His Birth. Similar to ours, I mean otherwise what’s the point of some dude who was born 2000 years ago?
According to the Gospels, Mary was a young woman living in the small town of Nazareth (Sources suggest around 400 people) in the Roman-occupied region of Palestine. She was engaged to be married to man by the name of Joseph, a carpenter. However, before they were married, Mary was visited by an angel who told her that she would give birth to a son who would be the Son of God. Mary, who was a virgin, was understandably shocked and confused by this news. Despite her doubts and fears, Mary eventually agreed to become the mother of Jesus.
Joseph, meanwhile, was faced with a difficult decision. When he learned that Mary was pregnant, he knew that he could not marry her without facing disgrace and shame. However, he also did not want to abandon Mary and their unborn child. In the end, Joseph decided to marry Mary and support her through the pregnancy.
As the time of Jesus’ birth approached, Mary and Joseph were forced to travel to Bethlehem (around 600 people in population) to be counted in a census ordered by the Roman Empire. It was during this journey that Mary went into labor and gave birth to Jesus in a stable, as there was no room for them at the inn.
The birth of Jesus was a simple and humble one, far from the glamorous and luxurious celebrations that Christmas has become today. It was a raw and real life event, marked by hardship and struggle, but also by faith and hope.
The family and I love hiking and walking on the beaches and forests in our surrounding local spots and the other incredible parts of our country. South Africa honestly wins. It just does. Beaches. Mountains. Forests. We got them. So this morning it was raining, “cold” – by South African standards and so misty. But the kids were up at 05:30 and game for a hike with dad… S
So what do I do? I gear UP! I get all the boots, jackets and beanies in the world for everyone. Daniel really quite content, long pants and jacket with shoes. He’s ready to run and get going… Lizzy on the other hand. NOPE. Would have none of it. Red dress. No shoes. Let’s go. She fought me, challenged me, wanted none of it and so what do I do? I let her obviously. I mean. I’m not gonna fight a toddler.
AND OFF WE WENT.
I WANT TO SAY THIS AGAIN… The birth of Jesus was a simple and humble one, far from the glamorous and luxurious celebrations that Christmas has become today. It was a raw and real life event, marked by hardship and struggle, but also by faith and hope. Our Christmas’s have become sanitised by the malls and Christmas lights we have put up. Excuse the commentary on the times, but everything has been sanitised, am I right? Everything in our lives exists to “protect” and keep us “comfortable”.
Cold outside, what we do?
Warm outside, what we do?
Raining, what we do?
Going for a run, what you do?
Going to the mall, what you do?
Going hiking, WHAT DO WE DO?
We wear shoes ALL THE TIME, when was the last time you felt grass, sand or stones under your feet? Stood on a thorn? When was the last time you felt rain on your skin? Not on your rain jacket? When was the last time you got your hands dirty, in the sand and the soil of the earth?
Throughout his life, Jesus would continue to challenge the social, political, and religious norms of his time. He preached a message of love and compassion, and taught his followers to be humble and to serve others. He also faced persecution and ultimately suffered a cruel and brutal death on the cross, but his message and teachings have endured for centuries and continue to inspire and guide people around the world.
See I think Jesus gets it: that kids get it. In Luke we read…
“People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. “Let these children alone. Don’t get between them and me. These children are the kingdom’s pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.”
The raw real life meaning of Christmas, then, is about more than just presents and holiday cheer. It is about the birth of Jesus, a man who would go on to change the world with his message of love and compassion. I wonder if Moses got into the same kinda “rut” we do, same road, same, path, same trees, same river, same road to and from work, and what does God say to him when He get his attention? Take your shoes off, FEEL the earth, feel the sand, FEEL the dust of the earth, FEEL the soft gentle tickle of the grass. This ground here, in THIS moment, IS HOLY it always has been and you just need to take your shoes off more… It is about the humble beginnings of a life that would inspire and transform countless people. It is about the raw and real struggles of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus, and the enduring message of hope and redemption that they bring to us all and let’s see if this Christmas, we can learn something from a small child.
As the year comes to a close and we look towards the new year, it is natural to start thinking about the goals and resolutions we want to set for ourselves. However, it is unfortunate that for many people, the time and effort put into setting these goals often goes to waste. Studies have shown that up to 92% of New Year’s resolutions fail, leading some to wonder if it is even worth the effort. But before we give up on goal setting entirely, it is important to understand why resolutions and goals often fail, and what we can do to increase our chances of success.
Do more than just write it down…
One of the main reasons why resolutions and goals fail is that people often don’t go beyond just writing them down. The act of writing down a goal or resolution is certainly a good first step, but it is not enough on its own. Without a plan or a process in place to actually achieve the goal, it becomes nothing more than an intention. For example, hoping to see your church grow without a plan for how to make that happen is simply a hope, and intending to lose weight without a plan for how to do so is just an intention. In both cases, the goal remains nothing more than a wish. Tell some friends, make yourself accountable, post it online and ask your friends to CHECK-IN on you…
Clear, simple, GOALS?
STOP for a second here, what’s on the LIST for January? Just January…
Another reason that resolutions and goals often fail is that people don’t have a clear understanding of what they want to achieve. It is important to be specific and realistic when setting goals. Vague or overly ambitious goals are much less likely to be achieved than specific, achievable goals. For example, a goal of “losing weight” is vague and doesn’t provide any direction or motivation. On the other hand, a goal of “losing 10 pounds in three months by exercising three times a week and eating a healthier diet” is specific and provides a clear plan for how to achieve it.
So go month by month, then term by term, then year by year.
Are your goals “YOUR” goals?
In addition to being specific and having a plan, it is important to consider whether a goal is actually important to you. If a goal is not something that you truly care about, it is much less likely that you will have the motivation and dedication to see it through. It is important to set goals that are meaningful and align with your values and priorities.
Outcome-driven goals, or goals that are focused on the end result, can be motivating in the short term. However, in the long run, process-driven goals, or goals that focus on the steps and actions required to achieve a goal, tend to produce better results. For example, a financial goal of saving R500 per month is a better goal than hoping to see your investments grow by 15%. See goals like planting trees, allow the growth to happen, water the soil, a couple years pass and then you’re actually eating the fruit of those trees, your children are sitting under the shade of those trees and your grand children are now running the farms selling the fruit to neighbouring towns. My goals definitely have my kids in mind, and my kids’ kids.
