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Bringing in the New Year Written By: Latrishka Thomas Use pain from the past as motivation In hindsight we will recognize that the pain from our struggles is what makes the future Another year has ended and we instinctively resort to making presumptuous statements commonly referred to as ‘New Year Resolutions’. These statements rarely ever become a reality because they are empty desires of self. Instead, we should make declarations over our lives-declarations of success, growth and change on a whole. Words, just like a stone into pond, often leave ripples on the surface of our lives, the impact of which is determined by how hard and how well we throw that stone (powerful declarations). Future success requires change As a celebratory act it is important that hope for future success exceeds fear of future failure. This may require change in thought and posture, or changing some persons with whom you associate. Claim this as your year, make the necessary changes whether for health and fitness, spiritual or for your personal relationships. Whatever you do- do not give up, do not look back and love yourself. Don’t settle! beautiful. In this statement, an important reality is spoken of, that is, our past. Sometimes the past can be a good motivation but often times it sucks us back into a whirlpool of painful memories and thoughts of failure. If we refuse to look back we are declaring continuous and consistent forward movement and a step forward is ALWAYS a step in the right direction. See opportunities…not obstacles We should also refuse to give up or refuse to turn back. Sometimes along our journey we face obstacles that appear to be bigger than us and we allow it to defeat us. However, it is important that we see the opportunity to grow and not the obstacles ahead. Our goal could just be beyond that one obstacle so keep the faith and hold on to hope, it is the only thing more powerful than fear. Love yourself! Most importantly, love yourself! Loving yourself is not an act of vanity but a way to lay hold of who you truly are…your identity. This means that you not only gain sight and appreciation of yourself, but your purpose on a whole. If you love yourself, you can more accurately love others and step into every situation with humility and surety. Firstly, we must never settle for less than the best. We often make compromises or changes to our value system or our goals based on the things (or people) we meet along our journey but the moment we lower our standard, we fail; fail at unmasking our true potential. 50 | Island Signatures Island Signatures | 51