Our remedies oft in ourselves do lie, which we ascribe to Heaven. -- William Shakespeare

What better example of 'renewal' than Spring -- when the birds' triumphant song awakens our senses and our spirit; where a dew drop on a budding crocus expresses the joy of a hard winter passed; and the chill of an early morning has about it an air of expectancy. Hope and beauty abound. Life and energy appear restored, renewed.

In our lives there is much to be renewed. Subscriptions, memberships, dog licences, insurances policies - they all have renewal dates, a time when they must be "restored to existence". But unlike Spring with its growth, development and beauty, these renewals are often nothing more than maintenance of the status quo. A case of "more of the same".

What of our own renewal? And that of our relationships?

We often hear of individuals renewing their commitment to a personal endeavour, career or an organization; of couples renewing their marriage vows. But are these truly cases of renewal - of "making like new, restoring to freshness, vigor and perfection" .... or more like our insurance policies being "restored to existence".

In life we get what we settle for...and while that's not always bad, too often we can be heard bemoaning our luck, the situation or life's "same old, same old"! And in that environment, what chance for growth, development and fulfillment.

Renewal takes focus and effort. Renewal takes time and energy. And, above all, I believe it takes courage and faith. But, not being prepared to settle for much less than my best, and our best, I'm giving it a shot.

How about you?

Don't be afraid your life will end; be afraid that it will never begin..Grace Hansen