Today is more than the beginning of a new year. It’s the beginning of a new decade—the second decade of the 21st century—and a time for making new resolutions (or renewing old ones) and for renewing hope and optimism for better prospects with which to shape better tomorrows.
28 years ago to the day, I resolved to quit smoking (tobacco). I fell off that wagon a couple of days later, then climbed back aboard it on January 10, 1982, and shook the tobacco monkey off my back for good.
27 years ago to the day, following an all-night New Years party, I watched daybreak through drooping eyelids and bleary eyes and the beginning of my last hangover, and resolved to kick my alcohol dependency for good. That resolution stuck on the first try.
If there’s a moral here, it’s that whenever you resolve to do something, do it with as much seriousness as you can muster. Be intelligent about your resolution; be realistic, as well. Apply passion and commitment liberally, and above all, don’t forget to congratulate yourself and give yourself a pat on the back every day that you successfully adhere to your resolution. These are tactics that have always worked for me, and there’s a good chance they’ll work for you, too.
So, what other thoughts do I have on this New Years day? Questions? Many. Answers? Few. Predictions for the country? Dire. Reminds me of a conversation between the Harper brothers:
Alan: Should I change?
Charlie: You should . . . but you probably won’t.
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