Hey everyone! It’s Hope here, and I can’t believe we’re kicking off Season 4 of our podcast, “Ron and Hope Unfiltered.” Time truly flies when you’re having fun, doesn’t it? I’m excited to dive into our experiences and reflections for this new year, even though I’m currently nursing a painful toothache. Ah, the joys of adulting!
So, let’s talk about resolutions, shall we? Every January, people set ambitious goals: lose weight, save more money, or improve relationships. I used to be skeptical about resolutions. They felt like a setup for disappointment, especially when most people drop them by January 9th! But this year, as Ron and I chatted about our own aspirations, I found myself inspired.
Last year was a whirlwind for us. Ron had knee surgery, and while he’s now walking around like a champ, it was a tough recovery. I’ve seen firsthand how pain can slow you down and make you question everything. I’ve been grappling with my own health issues lately, particularly my tooth that decided to throw a tantrum right after the holidays. Despite all of this, I realized that pain and challenges can be transformative if we let them be.
One thing that really resonated with me during our discussions is the idea of being versus doing. You can have all the dreams in the world, but if you don’t take action, they will remain just that—dreams. Ron mentioned the gap between wanting to achieve something and actually doing it. It’s a real struggle! How many times have I said, “I want to be healthier,” but then indulged in that extra slice of cake or skipped the gym because I was “too tired”?
What I’ve learned is that self-discipline is key. It’s not just about having the desire; it’s about taking steps, even small ones, toward those goals. I want to embody the fruits of the Spirit more this year—especially self-control. I’ve been reflecting on how I can cultivate deeper roots in my faith and my personal life. I want to be grounded, not just in good intentions but in actions that reflect my values and beliefs.
As we move into this new year, I’ve set a few intentions for myself. Firstly, I want to deepen my relationship with God. I want that childlike wonder back—the kind where I wake up every day expecting God to show up in miraculous ways. I remember the days when our needs were great, and God provided in ways that left us in awe. I don’t want to lose that sense of expectation, even when life gets comfortable.
Secondly, I want to grow in my personal health and wellness. It’s not just about losing a few pounds; it’s about nurturing my body and mind. I want to be the best version of myself, not just for me but for those around me.
I also came to a realization that it’s essential to surround ourselves with people who uplift us—whether that’s through our Inner Circle community or just friends who encourage us to keep going, even when the going gets tough.
So, as we embark on this journey through 2024, I encourage you all to think about your resolutions. What do you want to see in your life? Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Let’s hold each other accountable and celebrate the small victories along the way. Here’s to a year filled with growth, wonder, and plenty of laughter!
Until next time, stay hopeful!