Southwest Corner
New Year's Resolutions
Much has been written in newspapers and magazines and
broadcast on radio and TV in recent days about starting on the path toward
better health. The majority of
this advice seems to focus on improving our physical health by shedding a few
pounds and increasing our aerobic fitness as we start a new year.
However, this should also be the time when each of us
renews our commitment to improving our mental and spiritual well-being by
trying to improve the world around us—even if in simple but important
ways.
First, married couples can renew their vows of love, devotion and compassion to each
other. Simple demonstrations
of our love for our partner help reinforce our commitment to the pledges we
made on our wedding day before God, friends and family.
Second, a courteous smile and greeting to strangers we
meet during our daily activities can only serve to contribute to a more civil
society.
Third, we should make a point of treating all
employees in shops and businesses with the same friendliness we extend to
family and neighbors. Yes, the
concept of a Golden Rule (regardless of our religious orientation) should still
have a place in our lives.
Finally,
we should recognize that as with all New Yearıs Resolutions, failure is
inevitable if we try to do too much.
But a few kind gestures of love, compassion and friendliness each day to
someone will pay giant rewards through improved psychological health.
My future
commentaries in this space—even if they appear to stray from these resolutions—are written in
the spirit of shedding light on erroneous practices and behavior. No personal malevolence is
intended. I will also acknowledge
acts worthy of praise.
I wish you and yours all the best for 2005.
Stevecoon
Tucson, Arizona
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