F.I.P Resolution

In a recent teacher in-service, our school president, Mr. Perry,  gave teachers some thoughts on some positive attributes to resolve to make part of our classes for the new semester, and throughout 2012.  These ideas were based upon a recent documentary that he had viewed concerning the life of Steve Jobs. Mr. Jobs was the co-founder of APPLE computers. He died a few months ago, but at the time of his death, he was probably one of the wealthiest men in the world. He revolutionized the technological age of computers. He re-shaped the way we communicate throughout the world. In the documentary, a close friend talked about three attributes or characteristics that shaped Mr. Jobs into the man he was. Attributes that were apart from the wealth, the fame, the notoriety. Characteristics that were at the heart of who he was—and who he will be remembered to be.

In thinking back on Mr. Perry's words, I spoke with my classes about these qualities this week, as we begin a new semester--and for my seniors--their last semester of high school.  

These characteristics can be seen in the acronym F.I.P.  In thinking about these qualities, I posed several questions to my students this week.  In honesty, I posed them to myself--and now to you:

FOCUS—We all need focus in our lives. Are you focused? If so, what makes you focused? If not, what do you need to do in order to have the necessary focus in your life?

Without focus, we are like an anchor-less ship on the ocean—being tossed back and forth. We have no goals, no vision. We drift through our lives without real purpose or zeal.  As well, as Christians, there is a basic need for a focused relationship with God. If we have that focus, our lives can be more than we ever imagine. Without that focus, we may journey roads that may be less that perfect.

Are we leaders or followers?  Do we allow our focus to be swayed by other people?  Do we lose sight of our goals and plans based upon what others think, do, or feel?  Why?  How can we become more focused for the long haul?

INTEGRITY—What is integrity? We all know that it is good to be a “person of integrity.” But what does that mean? When we discussed this today in one of my classes, a student defined integrity as being  “who you are when no one else is looking.” I like that.  The real you.  The "you" that lies down with you at night, and can close his eyes with a clear mind and conscience.  The "you" that knows the difference in right and wrong, and chooses to do right--even in tough circumstances.  

Integrity means having self-value; being a person of your word; following through with what you say you are going to do. Are you a person of integrity? Why, or why not?

PASSION—What is your passion? Passion drives us in our lives! Passion is what you LOVE to do! Passion is what you WANT to do or to be! Passion is your reason for being! Passions change in our lives. Our goals change. Our plans change. We change. Do you have a passion? If so, is it the right passion for your life?  Does that passion drive you to be the best you can be?

For my seniors--including my son, Colton--they are nearing the end of their high school career.  One chapter is coming to a swift end, while another one looms in the future. This can be an exciting, overwhelming, and bittersweet time in life. By maintaining—or getting—these characteristics in life, they can be as successful as Steve Jobs--maybe financially and famously.  But more importantly, they can be successful as a person with a Christ-centered life--full of focus on the right things; integrity at all times; and passion for the important aspects of this life. My challenge to them was for them to incorporate one or all of these qualities into their lives in order to make the next few months the best and brightest of their high school years.  

As adults, we are constantly finishing one chapter in our lives and beginning another.  We are in the constant cycle of change in life.  My challenge to myself and you is to instill these qualities into our lives daily.  I want to focus on good things--positive things--goals and dreams.  I want to be a person of integrity and value.  I want to have a passion for the things that I love--music, teaching, family, travel!  I want that passion to show in my actions; on my face; in my life!  Wouldn't all of our lives be much better and more fulfilling if we applied these simple and basic concepts to our lives! 

Resolve to F.I.P in 2012!!  God Bless!