Okay. It is what it is – another blog on writing New Year’s resolutions. But, no matter how you fight the urge, it is the time of year when we often resolve to do things differently. We look at what went well in the previous year, what didn’t, and what we want to change in the new. It is the moment to pen the elusive Resolutions, things you intend to do like diet, exercise, and spend time with your mother-in-law.

What will be on your list? Are you working on a relationship? Are you adding to a Bucket List? Have you discovered a new passion? Will you take better care of yourself? Will you provide a better life for your family?

Sometimes our resolutions reach inward, sometimes outward. My attempt for 2017 is below. First is my personal list. Then I added another list – what I’d like to see for the world. I know, I know, but I can dream and sometimes dreams come true.

Courtesy of Entrepreneur

This is what I want to remember and what I want to do in 2017, keeping baby steps in mind:

Reflect on life and relationships to improve the quality of each. 
Enjoy the moment. 
Simplify the clutter.
Open myself to the world around me.
Learn and never stop learning. 
Understand life is complicated and deal with it.
Try to live my best life.
Invest in others by giving.
Organize time in productive ways.
Nourish my inner self. 

reflection is mine
a mirror into myself
wisdom lies within

untried roads abound
paths to discover and test
insights will inspire

compassion is mine
sensitivity is free
the new year awaits

Courtesy of Spirituality and Practice

This is my list for the leaders and peoples of the world who are dealing with ideologies of hate and destruction:

Rejoice in diversity.
Empathize with the plight of others.
See the realities of the world.
Offer solutions.
Lead people toward peace.
Unite for human rights.
Temper radicalism and terrorism.
Innovate new peace strategies.
Open debate to new ideas and listen.
Negotiate to achieve results.

Soldier of valor
Your dreams keep you from slumber
Peacefully we sleep

Soldier of valor
You fight in war zones afar
We walk in freedom

Soldier of valor
We pray for your safe return
We do not forget

And so, our New Year is here. Much to think about. I toast your good health, your family, your dreams! Happy 2017! I like this from T.S. Eliot:

… to make an end is to make a beginning