I had the good fortune of attending another wedding this past weekend. It was the fourth and final (I think) nuptials I’ve had the pleasure to witness this summer. This time, Shannon, my trainer from the gym, and Travis, were the victims benefactors. It was a beautiful ceremony, reception, and overall day.
Weddings are all about commitment, and while basking in another gorgeous day on Sunday, I found myself reflecting on that whole notion. However, I wasn’t pondering on the obvious commitment 2 people make to each other on their wedding day, but rather the commitment that most of us have trouble making to ourselves on a daily basis.
Why it is so hard for most of us to commit to doing something we tell ourselves we will do, need to do, or want to do?
I’m not referring to large endeavors, like committing to finally move south for the winter, starting a family, or building a new home. Nope, I’m talking about the smaller and more benign undertakings, such as finally cleaning out the garage, calling that someone you’ve been meaning to, or embarking on that overdue lifestyle change.
It seems to me that the relatively easy choices we have complete control over are the ones that we all struggle with the most, or make excuses for why this isn’t an opportune time.
I’m willing to bet there are a lot of people in this world who regret not doing something they kept telling themselves they would get to, and now they no longer have the ability or wherewithal to do. Worse, they might not even be around anymore.
What are we waiting for? What are we so afraid of? What’s the worst that can happen?
My challenge to all of you is to write down one thing (or several things if you’re feeling brave) you’ve been wanting/needing to do. Like I said, it doesn’t have to be something steeped in grandeur. Just jot down that certain something you know would make you feel better if finally completed.
Then give yourself a finite timeline to complete it. If your timing is more than a month, you’re probably thinking way too big. I’m talking about something you can do this week or at the latest, before Labor Day.
Finally, after you’ve written it, hang it somewhere that you will see several times a day. Better yet, somewhere where others will also see it so that it makes the commitment feel even more real.
I’m going to do it too. I’ve been putting off adding several new biographies/updates about recipients of Getting Back Up grants to the GBU website. I will do that by the end of the week. And now you all know, so you can hold me to It.
If you’re in a position where you don’t have anything you want or need to do, then I commend you. And some of you may just not want to make that commitment for various reasons. That’s your choice, however, don’t let fear of failure be the reason.
But as famous Jewish religious leader, Hillel the Elder, said, “If not now, when?”
And if you’re really fortunate, perhaps commitment will become habit.
Stand Strong!
Scott
Hi Scott. My husband Rick and I are walking the Grand Canyon. We enter through the North Rim on September 10 and exit the South Rim on September 13. We’re carrying 35lb packs which does make me a little nervous even though I’ve been practicing. Every since my son’s fall on September 5, 2011 and resulting quadriplegia my husband and I pursue life’s adventures “because we can”.
We’ll be walking with you in our hearts too Scott. Thanks for your continued inspiration .
Dear Scott,
Thank you for the inspiration. I just made 2 little posters to reflect on (by Hillel):
1.) “If I am not for myself who is for me? And being for my own self, what am ‘I’?
and
2.) “If not now, when?”
Thank you, Scott. I am going to call my son and daughter–right now!!
“If not now, when?” I love it.
This week I’m going to ask for forgiveness. Almost ten years ago , my best friend invited another friend to our pair of besties. They were both were married, had boys in the the high school marching band, loved doing crafts together, and so on. Yes, I was jealous and missed her terribly, so I made a break and haven’t talked to her since. It was my fault for letting envy take over, my fault for the break, and my fault for not answering her cards & letters. I don’t know that she will forgive me; I hope she does. Because forgiveness isn’t about the person forgiven, it’s about peace between the both of them. This week I will ask for forgiveness. Thank you, Scott, for helping me stand up and do what should have been done long ago. You give me strength❣
This should be hung on every bulletin board as a daily reminder to us all.
Thanks for ALWAYS inspiring! Such a GREAT message!
God Bless You – Mary
You are so right, Scott. I had a TIA scare last week and spent three days in the hospital. On medication now. My mission is to get some things around the house and do some traveling before I leave this earth!