"If any of you lack wisdom, you should pray to God, who will give it to you; because God gives generously and graciously to all."
—James 1:5
Looking back on the old year gives us a wealth of insight; we see where a completely different decision might have made all the difference. Reflecting on the past gives us understanding that can only come from hindsight. But who wants to become stymied in the mire of what could have been, or what should have been—trapped by our mistakes?
Foresight is equally as important. It anticipates what is coming; it is vision. Foresight is active and points us forward.
As we move into 2012, which direction are we looking? Are we looking ahead with excitement to what this New Year holds, eager to embrace its possibilities? And, just as important, have we learned the lessons of 2011—are we kinder and more loving because of past struggles, pain, disappointment and/or hardship? Are we more patient, when patience counts? More generous... more understanding?
What if we made it our heart's work to bless others by praying deeply for everyone we encounter on a daily basis? What would our world look like this year if we did?