During this Holy Week there will be many reflecting on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. I believe his resurrection is an enduring reflection of the hope, love, goodness and forgiveness that we all have the ability to exemplify. Regardless of your faith, an understanding that each day is an opportunity to resurrect your own internal goodness is vital to a happy and fulfilling life. To forgive your past mistakes and failures, and those who have hurt you is a challenging task, but will have a renewing, freeing and rewarding outcome. The meaning of the resurrection is more than just a moment in time. It is a moment in time that never dies for it continues in the spirit of all of us, and all that is around us. As Martin Luther said, “Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf of springtime.”

A definition of resurrection is, “the revitalization or revival of something, revive the practice, use, or memory of (something); bring new vigor to”. What might you want to revitalize in your life, or bring an element of vigor? It is easy to focus on what might have been, could have been, and should have been. It is more difficult to let go of yesterday, work in the present, and plan for your future. What are the values that structure your present, and build your future? What elements of your life are you wishing to resurrect and improve upon? Your attitude, work skills, education, health, nutrition, compassion, empathy, and professionalism are all examples of areas you may wish to revisit, assess and improve upon. To take accountability for what was, recognize what needs to improve, and live the ethical core values you believe in is a resurrection worth experiencing.

We all have our struggles and no one is from a perfectly functional family, nor has a problem free existence. However, the ability to persevere through the dysfunctions and the problematic issues will rely on the very values that form your character, strengthen your resiliency and solidify your self-respect. When made aware, we all have the ability to resurrect our own foundation of worth, and be the example to resurrect the goodness in those around us. As Hillary Clinton stated, “It is often when night looks darkest, it is often before the fever breaks that one senses the gathering momentum for change, when one feels that resurrection of hope in the midst of despair and apathy.”

An attitude of “can do” is essential to the accomplishment of what “will be”. Resurrect your inner spirit and drive to be the best you can be in all you do. Initiate resurgence in goodness, and be a positive example by the ethical behaviors that define a person of integrity. Resurrect a personal understanding that we all may be somewhat different in personality and viewpoints, but very similar in the desire for happiness and respect. To be resurrected in spirit does not contain negativity, prejudice, judgment or self-centeredness, but rather a selfless joy in recognizing the spirit in everyone and the positive abilities that each person possesses. It may be an idealistic thought, but why not believe and hope for the best in humanity. As author Aberjhani said, “Hearts rebuilt from hope resurrect dreams killed by hate.”

It is never too late to explore the best in you. A rebirth of spirit and the essence of your existence are not just reserved for Easter Sunday, but a lifelong journey to attest the very fabric of the amazing potential of every human being, and the contribution each of us can make. Being honest with who you are and what you stand for reignites your personal spirit, and the belief that you can be all you want to be and wish for. As the Resurrection is the very cornerstone that defines Christianity, resurrection of the spirit and a rebirth in the personal belief in your potential, is the cornerstone to a bright future, contentment and ultimate happiness. As Frederick W. Robertson said, “He alone can believe in immortality who feels the resurrection in him already.” Wishing all of you a very Happy Easter and Passover, and enjoy a wonderful Easter Dinner and Passover Seder with family and friends.

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