Are you always looking for the chance for a new beginning? A fresh start?
There is something magical about the “Eves,” the nights before Christmas and New Year’s Day. The momentous occasions of Christ’s birth and of the astronomical circling of the earth around the sun. The sense of expectation we feel. This expectation can be exciting and hopeful. It can sometimes be tinged with worry or even dread.
The Eves, especially New Year’s Eve, invite us to look back on the previous period and to make assessments and comparisons. How have we fared? Did we do the things we wanted to? Did we accomplish our resolutions and goals? This year gave us all a lot to deal with. In some ways, it gave us all a bit of an out. A reason why we didn’t carry out our plans.
Some people were able to adapt, to make new plans and new goals. Others grieved for pre-pandemic days. Some grieved and are still grieving for loved ones lost, or good health lost. Grief can’t be rushed. Some days are harder than others. It’s a good thing we only have to live one day at time.
The custom of making New Year’s resolutions is still going strong. “Resolve” may be too strong a word this year. As admirable as resolving sounds on the surface, perhaps “firm determination” sets us up for failure this year more than most. Firm determination may not leave the door open for the type of opportunities or invitations that may come our way.
Instead of resolutions, maybe this year make intentions. And dig down into the real goals behind the resolutions you may be tempted to make. Instead of losing a certain number of pounds, for example, maybe eating healthier and developing a more positive self image are habits that will prove more valuable over time.
Here’s to putting 2022 and all its challenges behind us, and embracing the potential of 2023!
