Wow, it's 2009!

Wow, it’s a whole new year! I love new beginnings – even the made-up ones. Actually, I guess they’re all made up.
Growing up, my family moved around a lot. So I was constantly the new kid on the block or in class. I remember thinking I could recreate myself at any time. I could become anyone I wanted to be, without the baggage of the old ‘me’ holding me back. Each time I entered a new school, I would decide who I wanted to be seen as and began acting as if that were already me! And, even though the old me started showing up and ruining my gig I think I probably gained some momentum toward the person I wanted to become each time I set a new intention. But it was slow-going.
Why is it so hard to change? We see it every year at this time. People make all kinds of resolutions, with the best of intentions, and then often quickly fall off the wagon. Self-help magazines, and self-improvement programs are full of ways to support us in having better bodies, making more money or avoiding procrastination. And STILL we often falter.
After years of falling into the ‘trap’ of a better ‘me’, I think I have found the answer. FINALLY! It all boils down to, what Byron Katie has termed Loving What Is. By trying to push against those extra pounds or those bad habits, we are actually helping to cement them in place. Surrender – which is different than giving up – is the key! Allow what is to be what it is, without trying to make it different than it is. This frees up the next moment, and the next, to move in a different direction. If we are focused on the thing that we do not want, that’s what we see – the thing that we do not want!
So this year, rather than trying to be a better ‘me’ I accept what is. At the very least, it will free up all the energy of trying to whip myself into shape. And there will be more loving and less resistance, which is bound to feel good. Here’s the best part about surrendering to what is – all kinds of inspiration and ideas and opportunities can then flow more freely into my experience - without all the angst and effort that trying to change required! Sign me up! I, for one, am looking forward to a very happy 2009! I wish that for you as well!