Just For Today...

I don't do New Year's resolutions. I like to think that a date on the calendar should not be my prime motivator for trying to be a better person. In my little, ideal world, every day should be an opportunity to change for the better. There are also fairies in my house who sprinkle pixie dust on the bowl of steaming smug that I eat for breakfast every morning.

Anyway, last night, I pulled out one of my stashed Sudoku puzzles. I save the puzzles from the newspaper and place them on my nightstand. Then, before bed, I relax by working out a puzzle. In our newspaper, a "Dear Abby" column is printed next to the Sudoku. Since I'm always at least a few days behind, the paper that I grabbed last night was from New Year's day. In that paper was Dear Abby's list of New Year's resolutions:

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Just for today: I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once.

I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

Just for today: I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine.

Just for today: I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things I can correct, and accept those I cannot.

Just for today: I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.

Just for today: I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I'll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly, and not interrupt when someone else is talking.

Just for today: I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.

Just for today: I will do something positive to improve my health. If I'm a smoker, I'll quit. If I am overweight, I will eat healthfully -- if only just for today. And not only that, I will get off the couch and take a brisk walk, even if it's only around the block.

Just for today: I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibility for my own actions.

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Normally, I'd toss lists like this aside, but for some reason, this list didn't set off my cheesy sensor or ring my cynic bells. Maybe, I'm getting to the age where I don't think Heloise could take a hint and crack open a box of Nice 'N Easy. Maybe, the full moon is toying with my emotions. Whatever the reason, I really like the idea of taking it all one day at a time.

So, just for today, I'm going to live just for today. Happy (belated) New Year!