The month of January is looked upon by many of us as a new beginning, a fresh start. All the missteps of the past year can be released. The new year is a clean slate that each of_0.png)
us can decide what to write upon. What we often write is a list of resolutions. I promise myself that this year I will exercise more, eat healthier, or take that cruise to Alaska. I may promise myself that this year, I will meditate every day and spend more time in prayer. But what happens when I inevitably slack off on my walking regimen because it is cold and snowy, or I find myself back to eating my favorite comfort foods more often than fresh salads? How do I feel about myself when I put off meditating for a day – or two – or more? Do I punish myself with feelings of shame and guilt?
The word “resolution” has more than one meaning. The one most familiar to us in relation to the new year is “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” But farther down the list of meanings in the dictionary is this: “the smallest interval measurable by a telescope or other scientific instrument; the resolving power.” It is synonymous with clarity and focus. It is a means to bring my view into a place of higher perception and understanding. How can I best utilize this “resolving power” to bring greater clarity?
One way is to use the word “intention” rather than “resolution”. I can be gentler with myself if, for a day or two, I fall short of my goals. I can utilize my daily prayers to bring my intentions into focus. I can bring my Divine Powers into play. In prayer, I affirm my Power of Strength to fortify me in building habits that support my aims. I affirm my Power of Will to choose those actions that best serve my highest good. I employ my Power of Zeal to take those actions with enthusiasm. Which of your Divine Powers can you activate in your daily prayer life to bring greater focus and clarity to your intentions for the coming year?
By Catherine Donavon
Unity Santa Fe Prayer Practitioner
Prayer Practitioners Available Every Sunday and During the Week
Every Sunday, after service, you have the opportunity to pray with a Unity Prayer Practitioner in the Sanctuary or youth classroom.
You can also request to have a Prayer Practitioner call you once a month or during the week for a Private Prayer Call.