It's a new year. That time when my dentist says, "Out with the old teeth; in with the new." That time when we leave some things behind.
In January 1973, I left trumpet lessons behind. I picked that thing up, and neighbor dogs would clap their paws over their ears and howl. Little kids would yell, "Mama! Make it stop!"
In January 1974, I left piano lessons. And picked up the guitar. I'm so glad. Pianos are hard to carry.
In January 1983, I left behind a moustache. And some short shorts. Or at least I put the short shorts in a box. You never can be sure when these things will be back in style.
Some things are better left in the past and never resurrected. A plaid sweater. Memories of root canals. And scoring into my own net. It's time to smile about these things. Laugh a little. And leave them in the past.
Of course, there are things I've left behind that I wish I hadn't. A wallet in a restaurant. An iPhone on an airplane. A passport at a Costco. A Mickey Mantle rookie card in some pants that went to the thrift store.
The passport I found. The others I didn't. I'd like to go back and un-lose some things. But I can't. And there's no use dwelling on it.
Of far greater significance are people I've loved who are gone now. My best buddy Lauren-an incurable encourager. My parents-my biggest fans. I can't bring them back, but I can thank God for their lives and the memories. And for the fact that I haven't really lost them at all. I know exactly where they are.
With a New Year comes the determination to leave behind some words I've been using too often. Words like, "If only." "You never." "You always." Words like, "Well, come to think of it, that dress does make you look a little husky."
"Gentle words bring life and health," says Proverbs 15:4. "The tongue of the wise brings healing," says Proverbs 12:18.
So here are some words I'll be adding to my vocabulary this year: Beautiful. Fabulous. Amazing. Waytogo. Youdabest.
I can't find a better Bible verse for this New Year than Philippians 3:13-14. "Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Every single day, by God's grace, I will celebrate what He's up to in the lives of those I love. And I'll add some sentences to that list of words too. Like these:
Am I blessed or what?
Worry about tomorrow? Will that help?
Why so downcast, O my soul? Put your hope in God.
Forgive you? Absolutely. I've been forgiven so much.
What can I do for you?
I'm glad that's behind me. It's time to move on.
I still can't believe you married me.
Thanks for all you do.
Things could be a lot worse.
Would I like a little ice cream? No. I'd like a lot.
Sure, Honey. I will burn these short shorts right now.
Phil Callaway is an author and speaker, who has been married to Ramona for 40 years. In a row. Visit him at philcallaway.com.
