2009 Self Reflection

Jan.1 2010. today my mind has been contemplating the value of self denial. Is self denial an important thing to practice? I think it is important because it build character and makes me a better person. A more kind and considerate person, making the world more pleasant for others and myself in return. Sometimes self denial can be about lying to yourself about obvious things, I am talking about the kind of self denial where you don't allow yourself something because even though you want it you know its not right for you. Like when you are on a diet and you know you shouldn't have that ice cream cone but you really want it, but you deny yourself the pleasure in hopes of reaching your goals. hmmm... goals, yup those are important.
my thoughts wander to religion when i think about self denial. The bible teaches that God gives us rules and guidelines to help us live a happier and more full life. Matthew 16:25-26 talks about not hanging onto worldly desires, our focus should be on our soul. i took the time to read an interesting bible commentary, here is the online link:
http://bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Topical.show/RTD/cgg/ID/596/Self-Denial.htm
I found it to be a good read.
hmmm... what exactly does that mean to focus on your soul? i think that when you make a decision you should feel at ease with it. it is your soul that gives you that at ease feeling. having an inner calmness is having a content soul. possibly your conscience and soul are tied together. self denial builds self control. self denial can be seen as painful in the moment but worth while in the end. i find myself looking forward and wondering what the consequences of the decision i make today will have on my future. I want to be wise in my choices so i can reach the goals that are important to me in my life.

ok now considering goals, what is important to me?
I will take some time in the following days to put together a list of the things that are important to me. This will give me a focus and help me to make wise decisions in 2010.