Make Your Bed
Over the years, I’ve not so quietly learned that I’m not the best one to keep New Year’s resolutions. Why? Well, let’s just say that I have at times been a strong starter and poor finisher. I can get very excited at the idea of starting something new. The trick, I have learned, is staying steady after the new wears off—staying engaged and staying hopeful when the train goes off the tracks. I’m starting this year with no real resolution, no grand proclamation other than to stay “in today.”
Jesus tells us in his Sermon on the Mount, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” [Matthew 6:34 (NIV)]
Today is all we really have isn’t it? I had an AA Sponsor who frequently reminded me that tomorrow never gets here. When it gets here it becomes today.
Actually, there is this one thing that I’m trying to do this year. I’m trying to make my bed every morning. At least I know I will have completed one task during the day.
Why make your bed? Watch this commencement speech to the graduates of The University of Texas at Austin on May 17, 2014 from Admiral William H. McRaven:
I love the idea of a task completed, setting yourself up to complete another and another. Maybe your task isn’t making the bed. Maybe your task is not leaving your dish on the counter as you are leaving the house in the morning. Maybe your task is texting one person in your life and telling them to have a great day. Or, perhaps your task is stopping for a second on your way out to pray for someone who is struggling.
In case you were wondering, this morning I did make the bed.
Happy New Year!
Jack
