'Change' in 2008

Since last night's win for Obama (whether you are happy about it or not) is historic, I thought I'd at least borrow from The Daily Oklahoman's headline "'Change' in America". In time, I'm sure, we'll see what kind of changes will actually occur in America. For now, I'm embarking on change in my own life, having little to do with the rest of the world.
Did you know that as of today, November 5th, we have exactly 8 weeks left in 2008? 8 weeks until New Years Eve and less than that until the holiday season. I know some are groaning, 'only 8 weeks?!?' It has me pretty excited though. If I lose a pound a week, I could lose 8 pounds by the end of the year! I could read the entire New Testament by the end of the year! More specifically, I can take steps in being a writer instead of just talking about it. That is what prompted this new leaf I'm turning over, but man 8 weeks exactly? You gotta take advantage of things like that.
We have all done our fair share of griping and complaining about politicians, their ways and their lies. They promise us changes until those votes are tallied and anything else we get is fluff, right? If I'm going to be honest, as you should be too, I'm not that different than a politician, except perhaps that I don't always do it on purpose. I declare change and prosperity to myself, my husband, my friends. Sometimes I even follow through on a few changes. But honestly, before I realize it there are too many fires to put out and everything I vowed to change earlier just doesn't seem that important anymore. That is until I'm 10 more pounds overweight, embarassed for a career that's going nowhere and just plain miserable. Then, all of those changes that just weren't important enough are the biggest thorns in my side, plaguing me with regret and self-loathing. So, I guess our politicians found all of this appealing and wanted to do it professionally, huh? :)
What makes the next 8 weeks different than any other lame attempt at change? Lately I've been inching myself closer to consistancy. I don't expect sprinting towards it, just a little bit each day. I have run over a mile every day for almost 3 weeks, up to a mile and a half right now. My perfectionism is waning, in a good way. I have goals now, not unrealistic standards. Most importantly, I believe I can get the jobs done. I'm trying to keep balanced with spiritual goals as well as physical, inviting God to be a part of everything. And not being foolish enough to think I can muscle my way through everything with or without Him. That is where I have stumbled many times in the past.
Here's to Change - Change in America and Change in Me! May it all be successful and healthy!