Closing out 2012

2012 has come to an end.

Some things are still fresh. We survived the Mayan Apocalypse, forcing the gloom-and-doom prophets to find a new date that spells the end of all of us.  Personally, my money is on the Furby that suddenly attains self awareness and takes over the world.

The funny thing is that from the moment we are born, we are dying – moving towards our individual end-of-days.  So an end is inevitable – move on and make the most of every day and stop worrying about “the experts” predictions.

Many things also continue to get stale over the years.

Another year has passed with politicians claiming to be working on an end to America’s fiscal problems.  In the end, they will produce yet another band-aid, leaving us to face more self-proclaimed fiscal cliffs as they work hard on personal and political agendas and not hard enough on the agenda of the American people.

War, hunger, disease, pestilence and poverty continue at a rate much higher than acceptable for such an advanced species.  The will to fix these issues remains weak amidst the critical mass of people required to make a difference.

In regards to the world’s challenges, we continue to yell and scream at each other instead of learning that listening is often more important than talking when solving complex issues.

And when it comes to talking …. the people who meet annually to discuss global warming continue to create an amazing carbon footprint of their own as they travel to the annual “global warming love fest” that produces little of value outside of a commitment to talk more.

Yup – we have a long ways to go in these areas.

And yes, people do the asinine thing of creating New Year’s Resolutions in ignorance of their past performance when it comes to making and break resolutions and in ignorance of understanding what motivates human beings to change.

But it does provide some entertainment to those around them.

But amidst all of this …..

Despite all of this, I continue to be amazed, inspired and blown away by examples of human brilliance, leadership, collaboration, ingenuity, unselfishness, generosity, perseverance and unlimited love exhibited by people who shine in a world filled with complexity.

And in a world that promises to grow more complex, such examples need to be highlighted, emulated and amplified without losing sight of the existence of evil, ignorance and greed.

The world will never be perfect.

But we have significant room for improvement.

Forget the New Year’s Resolution

Settling for New Years' Resolutions like going to the gym more, losing x pounds and the like are all wonderful ….

… and yet so mundane.

Find someone who inspires you with their contributions to the world and help them make the world a better place using your own strengths and talents.

Or better yet ….

Be one of those people who inspires others.

The world is waiting for your gifts.

What are you waiting for?

Create a great 2013 filled with health, happiness, hope, prosperity and IMPACT – however you define it.

In service and servanthood,

Harry