Resolve

Resolve to have fun this year. Resolve to do something you love to do, but never seem to have the time to do anymore. Make it managable. Read one book. Paint one picture. Laugh nearly every day.

This wisdom is from a sermon I heard some 11 or 12 years ago by Unitarian Universalist minister Patrick O'Neill, who at the time was the senior minister at the First Parish of Framingham, MA. Too often the resolutions we make are to fix what is wrong. We focus our lense intently on our flaws, and fail to celebrate life and what is good in us and in others. Some things don't need to be fixed. They are perfect just the way they are. And maybe if we spent a little less time fixing up what is failing, we would have more time to enrich what is so wonderful in each of us.

So when you sit down to make a list, or as you ponder the idea of a resolution while you rush through your life, think about what makes you special. What brings you joy? Resolve to focus a bit more on that this year. You would be surprised at how much power to deal with our imperfections is gained by strengthening that which is already quite wonderful about us. And if you are stuck by this question, find someone who can help you answer the question. Or, think about what you loved to do when you were a kid. Chances are, whatever that was, some version of it will still bring you happiness today.

This year, grow a little joy, and spread it around.