What is Availability?
January, the time of year when most make several resolutions. We resolve to lose weight, exercise regularly, take more time for our families, pay more attention to our budget, try to be on time for work, develop better relationships with fellow employees, sandwich in church or community volunteerism, etc. The list is endless.
While we all have good intentions, unfortunately the commitment to carry out our resolutions soon fades away. The excuses we find for abandoning our good intentions are almost as endless as the resolutions we make.
Unfortunately, over the years society as developed a "me first", attitude much different from that of our parents and grandparents. Oft times, we tend to devote most all of our attention to our desires, rather than the needs of others. Writing a check has become a way to assuage any feelings of guilt we may have. While contributing to agencies and organizations is necessary to provide services on a larger scale, many times the presence of a "warm body" is much more important.
Money is not the means to all ends, especially in developing relationships. Parents who are available to their children to help with homework or just to listen to happenings at school provide stability and help them set boundaries and priorities as they mature. Families who set aside some time for fun, to eat together, help with chores, and do some type of volunteer work in the community often find that they become closer and find great satisfaction in being together.
Going to work each day can be drudgery, or a pleasant experience. The routine of going to bed early enough so that you are rested in the morning is its own reward. It makes time available to attend to any family needs, such as breakfast, household needs as making the bed or walking the dog, and personal needs for getting ready without being in a mad rush or being late for whatever the day has in store.
Work on relationships in your business world. Get to know your co-workers and if they have needs for which you may be unaware. Be available to listen when they need someone to talk with. Be available to pitch in when you are needed to meet deadlines or otherwise expedite the work load. Avoiding office gossip will create trust and respect.
What better way to do the right thing than by being available to help others who are in need? Make yourself available for the little kindnesses to others. A smile or "hello" to someone might be just the thing to brighten their day. Consider taking an elderly neighbor on a short ride or to the grocery store. Conversation with you can dispel some loneliness and fear of being alone. Giving an hour or two to sorting clothes and other donations at a social service agency can quickly make you realize the blessings that you have. There are many ways you can be available. Include your family members in this service to others. Teach your children the importance of being available to assist others.
Being available to others takes planning and learning to say "no" if you really can't take on the responsibility. You must set aside time so that whatever you choose to do is done well.
Consider these Resolutions for 2012:
I will: put others ahead of myself.
I will: work toward developing good relationships in all situations.
I will: find a way to help, not a way to hide.
I will: be ready when I am called.
I will: be glad for the chance to serve.
I will: check with the right person before I make commitments.
I will: develop the good habits of setting priorities and including time in my schedule so that I may be available to help others.
I will: be truly thankful for the blessings in my life.
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