Resolutions

I am definitely NOT a New Year’s Resolution kind of guy. I don’t like setting myself up for that kind of failure. Plus, it just seems a little cheesy.

But I can’t help being a little reflective these days as my last round of chemo wraps up. I can’t help but think about the kind of life I’ve been living and wonder if any changes need to be made. I dunno – maybe that’s more related to a mid-life crisis than cancer.

(No worries – I have no plans to grow my hair long and buy a red convertible.)

And I have no real plans for major overhauls. But here are a few thoughts I’ve had lately, in no particular order. This isn’t an exhaustive list – I’m still contemplating.

I want to be more generous. Shanda and I have been EXTREMELY blessed by the generosity of others the past 6 months. We’ve had friends and family give, sometimes sacrificially I’m sure. And we’ve had Christians we don’t know from places we barely know give as well. In both cases, we have been reminded of God’s love for us through the love of others. And we have learned much about God’s provision through the generosity of others. I want to be a part of ministering to the real needs of other people like that.

I want to be slightly more spontaneous. Some of the best times I’ve had were born out of spontaneity. Frankly, spontaneity can drive Shanda crazy, so I have to be careful. But I sometimes like getting caught up in the moment and flying by the seat of my pants.

I want to splurge more – on the small things. I’m not a fan of wasting money or spending it frivolously. But I’d like to upgrade to the New York Strip when I go to Outback Steakhouse, you know?

I want to give more hugs. That sounds weird. But I grew up in a very affectionate home and I’m finding this desire to give more people more hugs these days. Maybe that’s just because I’m wrapping up chemo and I’m anticipating saying “good-bye” or “thank-you” to a good many people – health care providers and others. So if you find yourself getting a big hug from me anytime soon and it weirds you out, please just humor me.

I want to go to a Duke / North Carolina basketball game someday. Yes, this is pretty specific. But this is the ultimate sporting event for me. (BOBBY! COME ON, MAN!)

And I want to eat more Snickers bars with almonds. Because, dude, those things are really, really, good.