As 2020 is coming to an end, let us remember these ten simple things that will hopefully give us extra fuel in the new year.

1. God loves you

You are alive, healthy, and well. Know that you are loved. If you are alive but unhealthy and unwell now, know that you are still loved. You are the apple of His eye! This simple but profound truth that the Creator of the universe loves you is actually enough for giving you a reason to live.

2. Be thankful and trust God

Be thankful with who you are. Be thankful with what you are. Be thankful with what you have. Count your blessings, but do not trust in your fleeting earthly treasures. Trust in the Possessor of heaven and earth who can supply all your needs with the abundance of His love. Thank the Life Giver in all circumstances.

3. Stay motivated

Motivation is your energy. Stay energized with your dreams and believe the best is yet to come. You are stronger than you think. You are not alone in your struggles. Do not give up doing your best while hoping and praying for the best. Today must be better than yesterday and tomorrow must be better than today.

4. Be wise and patient

Know your limits. Seek God’s wisdom daily and apply it into your life. Have a priority, seek what matters most, and live your purpose as well. Greatness takes time, so master the art of waiting. Prepare yourself well, so that when opportunity comes, you will succeed. Trust in God’s perfect timing.

5. Time is precious

Do it now while you can and while you have time. Procrastination can be evil. Be on time if you can’t be in time. But if you have to be late, make the time up with something good and useful. Always respect other people’s time. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good. Be meaningful with your time (and words too).

6. Live in the moment

Enjoy the present moment. Do not waste your energy for regretting over your past nor worrying about your future. Appreciate your progress. Celebrate your success. Stay focused on your goals. Have a quality time often with your family, friends, and loved ones, either physically or virtually.

7. Rest well

Make sure to have a work-life balance. Pursue harmony with the creation and the Creator. Rest in His love. Expect healing from your rest. Reduce the use of social media to avoid distractions. Pray to God, listen to His words and meditate on them, sing praises to Him with a grateful heart.

8. Forgive others (and yourself too)

Everybody can make a mistake because nobody is perfect. But there is always a time for reconciliation. Forgive others as you have been forgiven. Live a peaceful life. Get rid of anger, arrogance, envy, bitterness, and stubbornness. Take delight in your relationship with yourself, with others, and ultimately with God.

9. Give your life

Life is a gift. As you have been given life, give your life back for the greater cause. Help others in whatever way you can without expecting anything in return. Do not be afraid to sacrifice. You will never be poor because of giving; instead, you will be richer, with love in your heart.

10. Life is not all about you

Do not be perfectionist, if it tortures you or others around you. Do not take everything too seriously. Be humble and sincere. Develop your sense of humors. Love yourself, but not too much that you can’t love others. Most of all, love God and center your life to Him and His cause. You never know when He takes you home.

Cheers! Have a fresh start into the new year!

An end of year reflection,

Vancouver, December 30, 2020