Reflecting on Goals

Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil – this is a gift of God.  They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Ecclesiastes 5:19-20

In November I was able to complete my professional certification. This has been a goal for me since I finished graduate school 5 years ago. Like many, at the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 with a whole new decade laid out in front me I wondered what my next steps should be. What new goals would I look forward to. What new adventures could I find.  

In the weeks following I have had many conversations with family, friends and close mentors about what happens when you complete a big life goal. When I was 25 I set out some BIG goals. I wanted to finish my bachelors (2011), obtain a masters (2014) and get certified in my field (2019). I wanted to own a home (2009). I wanted to travel to another country (2019). I wanted to go on a Boy Scout High Adventure trip (2008). I wanted to run a half marathon (2013 and 2014). I wanted to be more active in my church community (Board of Deacons 2010-2012 and 2014-2016). Of those 2002 goals I have crossed nearly all off the list, and I’ve been left to wonder where I should put my energy next. 

This verse has helped my perspective. I need to take time to be happy and joyful for these gifts from God. I have not reflected well on all these achievements and have instead crossed one off the list and raced ahead to the next one. For now, I have established some new goals…they aren’t as big or dramatic as some of the things I set forth to do in my 20s but I feel like they can bring the same level of fulfilment. I want to ride my bicycle a metric century (62 miles) – ok that one is left over from when I was 25. I want to be 100% debt free when we retire. I want to travel outside the United States every 3-5 years. These larger goals will require small goals to build on along the way – I have to have a plan for reducing and eliminating debt over the next 24 years. I have to ride my bike pretty regularly and train if I am going to make it 62 miles. I need to make a savings plan for my travel appetite. I know I am missing a few that are important to me… I want to learn more about the writing of the Bible. I want to find a new way to volunteer with something I am passionate about. I want to be a lifetime learner. I want to be occupied with gladness of heart. 

Prayer: Loving God, thank you for watching over me as I work on accomplishing my goals.  I know that you have a plan for me and the rest of my life.  Help me to be happy with the wonderful gifts you have given and experience the joy I know you desire for your children on earth.  Amen

Christi Moock