I’ve been thinking about what I can do to be a better man. A better husband and father. Obviously, it would be good if I could find a way to add hours to the day so that the time I spend with my family could last longer.
But aside from that, what can I do? I’ve decided I need to say no. And yes. I need to say no to those things that will not do and have no place in me and my life. And I need to say yes to those things that my life needs and that my Father would have me do and experience.
Aristotle stated it pretty well, I guess: “To enjoy the things we ought, and to hate the things we ought, has the greatest bearing on excellence of character.”
Here are ten things I have decided to say “No” to:
1. Bitterness
2. Hatred of what I don’t understand
3. All hatred of any kind
4. Vengeance
5. Anger
6. Complacency
7. Vanity
8. Fear
9. The status quo
10. Laziness
Here are ten things I will say “Yes” to:
1. Moments of joy
2. Forgiveness
3. Wisdom
4. God’s direction and correction
5. Sacrifice
6. As many hugs and kisses as my family is willing to give
7. Friendship
8. Hard work
9. Service
10. Studying things out more
I’m excited about saying yes. I am excited about what life has in store. Since this will be published on the tenth anniversary of 9/11, I want to know, what will you say “Yes” or “No” to in order to honor those who died that day? How do you honor the sacrifice of ALL of those who came before and built bridges to make your life possible?