Life's Like That

Happy New Yearf

by Jerry Bullock

The celebrations are over for another year. I hope you had a good Christmas. As we start a new year together and put behind those things that are past, as the Apostle Paul would say, let me share some things that you can do to make 2008 the happiest year you have ever known.

  1. 1. Think first of someone else. The happiest people I know are those who seldom think about themselves. Happiness comes from turning outward, not from looking inward.
  2. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. God placed you in one of the prettiest spots on His earth. The hills, the spring flowers, the clear skies and the most beautiful sunsets are to be found right here in San Marcos. Make a promise to enjoy them more this year.
  3. Write a love letter to someone you love. Sometimes we get so used to that special person that we forget to tell him how special he is. Sit down and put it on paper. He will feel good and so will you.
  4. Thank God for who you are and what you have. You are the only you in all the world. God has a special purpose for your life that no one else can fulfill. He has given you what you have. Thank Him for it and be glad in it, whether it is great or small.
  5. Mend a quarrel. Most of us have a pet grudge which we have jealously held, sometimes for many years. This would be a good year to get rid of it. It is easy. Tell the other person you love him and ask him to forgive you.
  6. Laugh a little . . . no, laugh a lot. There is an old cowboy saying in Texas: "Laughter kills lonesome." More and more, research is showing that laughter really is the best medicine.
  7. Say thank you. Be sure when someone does something nice for you that you thank him. Especially remember to thank God for His continuing blessings and grace. In Romans Paul writes that man broke God's heart by, as much as anything else, forgetting to say thank you for the gifts God gave to him.
  8. Pray for peace on earth. Spend some time in prayer every day, and remember to pray for peace. Pray for our country and for those who lead our nation.
  9. Deal honestly in all that you do. It is an old Texas tradition that a handshake is a sacred bond. That kind of honesty is rare today.
  10. Always show your love. When the Pharisees asked Jesus what the first commandment was, He answered, "Love the Lord your God with all thy heart; that is the first commandment and the second is like it: love your neighbor as yourself."

    There are many other paths to happiness, but if you will follow these, you will have a great new year.