Creed

January always invites the process of self-examination.  I hate January.  But I love a new beginning.  In December, Mrs. Bean invited us to create a personal creed, prayer, or mission statement for January's class. 


CREED: an idea or set of beliefs that guides the actions of a person or group


An example of such is "The Prayer of Eusebius" (a pagan who lived some two thousand years ago, as quoted in Gilbert Murray, Five Stages of Greek Religion, p. 188)
 
May I be no man's enemy, and may I be the friend of that which is eternal and abides.
May I never devise evil against any man; if any devise evil against me, may I escape without the need of hurting him.
May I love, seek, and attain only that which is good.
May I wish for all men's happiness and envy none.
When I have done or said what is wrong, may I never wait for the rebuke of others, but always rebuke myself until I make amends.
May I win no victory that harms either me or my opponent.
May I reconcile friends who are wroth with one another.
May I, to the extent of my power, give all needful help to all who are in want.
May I never fail a friend in danger.
May I respect myself.
May I always keep tame that which rages within me.
May I never discuss who is wicked and what wicked things he has done, but know good men and follow in their footsteps.


Awesome example.  Mrs. Bean always comes up with great prompts-- what a woman.  How do you write after reading something profound like that? 
I got going on mine soon after the year started.  My goal in writing was to be honest and not preachy, and to inspire myself and remind myself what is most important to me.  What I've written isn't perfect, but it's a good start. 


The One I Strive to Be   
I believe in the goodness of others

I rejoice in music, art, and laughter

I refrain from criticism and judgment

I seek knowledge each day

I strive to be aware of others needs

I value obedience, honesty, and integrity

I fulfill my responsibilities

I understand a healthy mind reflects a healthy body

I put people before things

I need alone time

I feel deeply

I love my family; they are my world

I know my Heavenly Father and that He loves me

I have hope in my Savior Jesus Christ

I believe, I serve, I hope, I dream.


We sat down as a family after the new year and wrote down ideas of what our family is and believes in... that is one of my next projects.  It's tricky collaborating with seven other people!  The fun part about it is that there were such common themes.  Time to get crackin!  You've got one week until January ends.  I dare you to start today. :)