"So this is the New Year," as the saying goes

But I do feel different.

In 2007 I hope to read more books
To spend more time in creation
Dancing
Playing basketball, however horribly

And to smile more often

In 2007 I hope to be more punctual
And more dependable

I hope to fill my life with people I respect
And to filter out the values and priorities of modern American culture
In favor of the things of God

I hope to take myself a lot less seriously

I hope to speak less and listen more

I hope to learn the value of simplicity, silence, and spontenaiety

And to write as one with honest struggles
Rather than one with aspirations of inspiration

I hope finally to turn my focus outside of myself
And to find strength and purpose for all of these things
And for my entire life
In the joy of brokeness in Jesus Christ