Put some ‘resolve’ in your New Year resolutions for 2017!
This article appeared in the January 2017 edition of the Chickasaw Times
Happy New Year, and best wishes for a tremendous 2017!
It is traditional to make resolutions this time of year as we look forward to a chronological “clean slate.”
A resolution is defined as, “a resolving or determining; a decision as to future action.” That is how most of us frame a resolution. We look at an area or areas of our lives that could use some positive change, and we determine what we are going to do to make things better.
Another great word that has essentially more to do with our actions than just a simple resolution is “resolve.” Resolve, as a noun, is defined as “a fixed purpose or intention; a firm determination.”
Now, that word really fits when making a resolution!
In order for any “resolution” to actually meet with success, we must have firm “resolve.” It is imperative that we not only recognize a challenge, but that we set our minds to overcoming that challenge and vaulting to new levels of achievement and success!
Resolve can look a lot like stubbornness, and there is often a bit of the latter thrown in the mix. But resolve is different in that it requires some thought, planning and basis in fact.
Imagine the resolve the Chickasaw people had to develop when facing Removal 180 years ago. This unilateral action was unjust, unfair, immoral and illegal. It was everything our ancestors neither wanted nor deserved. Yet, they faced the situation with resolve to survive and come together in new lands.
That resolve carried them across hundreds of miles and countless challenges and terrible disappointments. They were bowed, but not broken, and would begin life anew in unfamiliar territory.
Throughout the generations, the Chickasaw Nation has maintained its firm resolve to not only survive, but to prosper.
The Chickasaw Nation re-energized itself in the new territories and built a new society and new lives. From virtually nothing, our tribe rose up to create homes, schools, churches, businesses and so much more. Our tribal government never missed a beat. The common resolve of our forebears drove them to incredible successes. We can be very proud of that!
Every Chickasaw family has met its own personal trials and challenges. We all encounter myriad obstacles throughout our lives. During those times of challenge, and even crisis, we can gain strength by recalling the whirlwinds that swept up those who came before us, and how they soldiered on through those times of trouble.
Not all of life must be burdensome, but we know from history that we are going to have to deal with things we do not anticipate!
Chickasaw people, I believe, have innate resolve that continually moves us forward. Our history as builders, traders, warriors and strategists has served, and continues to serve us well. In simple terms, we are determined, and we refuse to quit!
My resolution for 2017 is that we meet the year head on, with clear goals and a solid plan to achieve those goals. All we need to add is a good dose of historic “resolve” to make good things happen.
Please accept my very best wishes for a fantastic 2017!