Happy January 2, 2009

I saw two movies yesterday and both were thought provoking. I am lingering over them -- thoughtfulness is not a bad way to begin a new year. "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is an eloquently introspective character film that leaves me pondering life's experiences, decisions, and judgments. It is a three hour movie which is only right for the story told. I had seen "Out of Africa" before but watched it again last night. Change, courage, and conviction are at the core of this movie and it, too, provides the food for a new year's thoughtfulness.

Both movies also chronicle the achievements of two people and that is something many fail to do for themselves. As young mothers, a friend and I who lived hours apart would write each other lengthy letters which were composed over many days or weeks. (This was pre-computer) A common lament was that neither of us seemed to accomplish much during a day, yet after listing how we had spent our time we could see on paper just how much we had actually gotten done.

We go about our lives working, raising families, helping friends, giving to the community but fail to stop and take stock of our accomplishments. No, most will not receive national or even local recognition for actions or contributions but that doesn't diminish their impact. Rather than just making a list of resolutions, each new year we should make a list of our accomplishments for the previous year, realize that we have made a difference in someone's life, (think "It's a Wonderful Life") and strive to make a difference again in the new year.

Raymond Moody's "Life After Life" notes that survivors of near death experiences relay the message that we are not judged on what we do in life but what we don't do. While I may not have always given as fully as possible, I find in reaching my 50's that it is easier to be kind and more giving of myself and my time. I also know I will not win prizes and accolades, but I no longer need or want recognition for good deeds. Doing them is gratifying enough.

I have wandered a bit in this blog but I hope it is not too difficult to discern my sentiments. New Years Eve and Day are times of reflection for me and those reflections are the basis for any goals for the New Year. Each day, let alone each new year, is a new start and if I have any resolution it is to strive to greet each day with an optimism, good intent, and thankfulness.

Happy New Year!

Resolutions

Resolutions have been of no use to me in the past. The number one, yearly resolution for most of my life has been to lose weight. There were probably 5 years of my life when that wasn't a resolution. But, in an attempt to record changes I would like to make in my life, I am going to record my "resolutions" here and check on them periodically to see how I am doing.

1. Lose weight
2. Exercise
3. Save money
4. Write more
5. Read more
6. Keep a list of all the books I read this year.
7. Clean the spare bedrooms and basement

Okay, this is probably a high standard to set for myself. I suppose I could tackle each item a bit each day or set aside one day for each. My success rate might be better if I post a list on the refrigerator -- a check list so I can check off items daily when the task is accomplished.

I figure I don't have to start until Jan 2 or if I really want to ease into it January 7 for a fresh new week. Tending toward procrastination as I do, Jan. 7 looks like a good start day....gives me time to grocery shop and make up a budget and refrigerator list.

I'll keep you all posted.