A Very Happy New Year to You!
As the New Year begins, many of us take this time to set goals and plans for the year ahead.
But let me ask you: how did the goals and plans you set at the beginning of last year turn out?
Were you able to achieve them? Or, like many others, did they fade away or fail to sustain your efforts?
This week’s newsletter, titled “This Year for Sure! Secrets to Achieving Your Goals ”, is focused on helping you ensure success.
There are many reasons why we struggle to stay committed to our goals. Let’s take a moment to reflect and reassess from the very foundation.
Here’s a passage from The Laws of Wisdom:
”The very fact that aspiration emerges from within is in itself a gift. What is emerging from within you now? What is emerging is your gift. Having that gift means that such a possibility exists." P.118
What is emerging from your heart right now?
That emerging feeling is your talent. And the very presence of that talent signals the possibility of achieving something extraordinary.
Without a strong inner desire, the path will not open.
So, ask yourself: Is your goal something that truly arises from the depths of your heart—something you are genuinely passionate about achieving?
For instance, if you start learning a language just because it seems appealing but struggle to stay committed, it might be because you're not deeply passionate about it.
If you set a goal simply because others around you are doing it, or you want to break a bad habit but secretly think, “I’m fine as I am,” it might not be something you truly want.
Ultimately, if you don’t persist, it could be because it’s not aligned with what you genuinely desire.
At the start of this year, take a moment to reflect: Do your goals, dreams, and ideals come with a strong sense of passion and determination?
Take a spiritual perspective:
From a spiritual standpoint, ask yourself what truly deserves your passion. Reflect on what you are called to devote yourself to wholeheartedly.
In I’m Fine Spirit, we find the following wisdom:
"Ask yourself what kind of role you have in this lifetime. Then, you will begin to see your mission in this life. Find your calling and within it, make yourself excel in a way that helps you accomplish your mission. Remember, do not try to replace your life with anyone else’s.
If you accept others as who they are, you should also accept yourself as who you are. God forgives all people and says, 'It is okay to be you. You don’t have to become someone you are not. Be who you are, the person who is called by your name.'
That means God has accepted and approved of you to undergo soul-training in this life based on who you are, so you are allowed to live your life in your own way. Live the best that you can, with what has been provided to you."
Each person is born into this world to refine their soul through the journey of life, undergoing cycles of reincarnation. As Master Okawa teaches, we are here to shine brightly, allowing our unique qualities to illuminate the world around us.
Take a moment to think deeply: Why were you born into this country, this era, this family, with these particular traits? What is it you are meant to accomplish in this life?
In other words, ask yourself: When the time comes to leave this world, what kind of life will leave you with no regrets? What emerges from deep within your heart might be what you should channel your passion into.
A life where you shine brightly and illuminate those around you. A clear, long-term vision or aspiration is what gives meaning to the goals you set this year, the actions you begin now, and the things you must continue.
Now, we invite you to listen to Master Ryuho Okawa's enlightening lecture, "Success Mind."