So on Wednesday Night we had Christmas D Group (which half way through turned into a little surprise wedding shower – but that’s another story – suffice to say that as it was D group we snookered the guys into a shower, games and all – too funny) and as usual there was the over and above abundance of yummy food and wine that you see above.
Instead of a message we did some reflective questions – and it made me realise again how good it is to stop – even in this crazy Christmas frenzy and reflect. Somehow when I lived in NY this was easier – the cold weather makes for more time inside, watching the Christmas tree lights twinkle , seeing It’s a Wonderful Life one more time, wrapping presents and reflecting. In the Southern Hemisphere it is not so conducive to pondering – we are rushing round shopping in the heat, going to drinks on decks and coming home and jumping in the pool!
No matter where you live – it is good to look back on the year that has been and ask yourselves some questions . Here’s the questions we used.
1. What was the highlight of your year ?
2. What was your greatest challenge ?
We have had a monumental year in my group- a 30th, a 40th, a 50th and a 60th, one long service leave, one 3 month Europe trip, one first child to school, one change of school, one Masters almost complete, one Presence Kids Event Managed, one major change of work direction, one finalist in a short film competition in LA – and an engagement and a wedding next Monday. It was so wonderful to reflect on these things that we have journeyed through together.
(Funnily enough the highlight was often the greatest challenge as well . To make something a highlight in our lives frequently means it involves a mountain to overcome. )
So as this year come to a close, in among all the Christmas parties and family fun -why not stop and reflect on the year that has been. See the hand of God – see your personal triumphs – see the areas you need to work on.
If you are really brave ask some extra questions
Is my pace sustainable ?
Where do I need to make adjustments to achieve my goals ?
Anyone have any other good questions you would like to throw in to help us reflect ??
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I love this. I never do this, it’s such a great idea.
Love this thought, that our biggest challenges are often our biggest successes. Sometimes it doesn’t feel that way, but looking back I see the good that came out of the biggest challenges of this year.
Thanks Pam! Love your blog.