It’s already 2 weeks into 2017! For Australians, particularly Queenslanders, the summer break is spent with sand between our toes, sunscreen slathered on our faces, or lounging by the pool. Resolutions? You bet – lazily made while watching the fireworks, usually ones about getting more exercise, losing weight, being more mindful etc.
With the wisdom (huh! I hear my siblings say) of years, or maybe with the knowledge that most resolutions just don’t make it beyond February, recently my resolutions have been limited to just ONE per year. A couple of years ago, it was to stretch my hamstrings everyday – sadly, not achieved. This year it is not to whinge about a specific person. Hmm I caught myself several times just short of a grumble … so far so good, but we’re only into the second week of the year.
Then there are “second tier” pledges to myself, mostly regarding cutting back on consumption. Last year it was not to buy new clothes (there were lapses, but not major) and in 2017 it is not to buy any new handbags. Purchases at vintage or thrift shops don’t count because it’s recycling 😉
What has made an impact on me in the last few days is the news that three of my friends have had bad news. Late 2016 A. fell off a horse and had multiple fractures, B.’s spouse had a serious stroke while on holidays, and last week C.’s beautiful golden daughter fell from a height injuring herself critically. In a flash their lives have changed. All the injured have good medical care, and are recovering a little more each day so there’s much to be thankful for. C’s email today moved me …
“you know as a mother, you work so hard to protect your children and you don’t always succeed. But she is still with us and I thank God for that. Life has taken us on a different course now and we are working on finding all the positives on that path.”
What better reformulated resolution than this, to find positives on our path, morning by morning new blessings to see.
I welcome your thoughts.
PS The featured image was taken on the front steps of our home to celebrate 2017 with our grandbaby. He’s growing up quickly!