As we straddle yet another old and new year, let’s think of the person we want to be and/or the kind of world we want to live in.

So many complain about the world – the rise of unhappiness and anger which makes us dread interactions.

Each one of us, on our own, have the power to change the world.

Any large change starts small, begins with one, then moves to some; it inspires others, and a movement grows with each new person who joins.

In considering our goals, our resolutions for the New Year, let us add to that list an effort to be kind, be patient.

Hear me out – if we come across someone who is driving like a Manhatter chasing a white rabbit, instead of reacting in anger, whether they cut us off or not, we could react with compassion- perhaps they’ve had a bad day, are upset with something, did not even realize they were driving aggressively.

With any little tresspass, a rude servant, a thoughtless shopper, a random stranger behaving questionably – We can choose to act instead of react. We can choose to walk away or step back.

Smile more this year. Forgive the little things. Give a random stranger a compliment.

To help, to start your day on a positive note, write three things every morning you are grateful for. They can be small things – like birdsong – or big things like health. We rarely think of health or being pain-free until we are ill or injured. Be grateful for what you have. Foster the attitude of gratitude to fill your well and pay it forward in gentle, loving, kindness.

I am thankful for this new year – welcome 2024! May I be better than I was in 2023.

I wish us all love, may we be met with patience when we need it, acknowledge kindness when we see it, and offer thoughtful gestures to those who are working on their own goals.

HAPPY 2024!