Rev. Vicky's Message January 22, 2026

As we conclude our 3-part series on Unity’s 12 Powers this coming Sunday – I will  be inviting you to reflect on whether there is a particular spiritual power calling you to dive deeper into, to guide or enhance your spiritual growth this year. You each received a Unity 2026 Intention Magnet at the beginning of this series, with a space for you to write a word that represents your intention for your spiritual growth this year. (If you didn’t get one, you can pick one up on Sunday.)

I recently read an article, “Setting Intentions for the New Year (Instead of Resolutions)” by Becky Garrison that offered some useful insights that I thought could be relevant to our process. https://www.spiritualityhealth.com/setting-intentions-for-the-new-year

Noting that half to three-quarters of all New Year’s “Resolutions” are already abandoned by this time (3 weeks into the new year) – Garrison proposes some “success” suggestions: 

First, differentiate between “want to” and “need to” goals. We might notice that the latter often pertains to others' expectations of us, whereas the former focuses on our own personal passions, interests, and values.

Second, we are more likely to follow through on new intentions that are positive, intrinsically motivating, and fulfilling to achieve. In other words, rather than critiquing what we think we need to change, we can focus on how to build upon our strengths.

Third, contemplate how to break larger goals and/or intentions into smaller, more quickly achievable pieces. It doesn’t only make the process more manageable, but it allows us to focus more on the journey than the outcome, and celebrate affirming successes along the way.

Fourth, consider creating a support-system, like a friend who can serve as an accountability buddy – checking in at designated times to support each other keeping on track with our respective goals. 

Applying these guidelines to our 12 Power intentions might look something like this:

My INTENTION this year is to go deeper into my Power of LOVE – because I want to feel and express more Divine Love and Wisdom in the world. Feeling closer to God, I will experience less fear, and as I experience less fear, I will judge less and experience more compassion.

1. I will create an affirmation, reflecting this intention, to add to my daily meditation; e.g., “I am a center of love.”

2. I will seek out information (articles, books, etc.) about how to feel and express more of God’s love – identifying at least one new practice each month.

3. When I feel anger or judgment or frustration arising within me, I will re- focus my attention onto something more positive.

4. I will seek out ways to be of service to my family, my church, my larger community – making a list of possible actions I can take – and choosing at least one a month to complete.

5. I will journal daily/weekly about ways I am fulfilling my intention to be more loving.

6. I will connect weekly with my prayer buddy to share about my progress as well as obstacles I may be experiencing. 

Most important, however, is to, ENJOY THE JOURNEY! We can set calendar reminders, perhaps quarterly, to see how we’re doing; but be sure they are prompts for self-reflection and celebrating our growth, not self-judgment. 

Speaking of check-ins – maybe we can have a quarterly 2nd Hour where we check in and support one another in our Intentions, as a community? If you’re interested – let me know.

Blessings,

Rev. Vicky