New Beginnings

"Today is the first day of the rest of your life!"

I've always loved this quote,from an unknown source. As we enter a New Year, I think it's appropriate to think about what that means. Perhaps some of you wrote New Year's Resolutions... and have conveniently forgotten about them already. You know, the same resolutions that many of us make year after year... dieting, exercise, speending less money, etc.

This New Year's Eve was a special one for me with two of my three children's families gathered here with me on Galveston Island, Texas. We made New Year's Resolutions for each other. There was a sheet of blank paper for each of us. We passed them around the room and took turns creating resolutions for the others. At the end, each person (including 6 of my grandchildren) read aloud the resolutions made for him or her. It was hilarious at times. We laughed until tears ran down our faces. Other resolutions were serious and set some important goals. One of the resolutions that family members made for me was to write another novel this year! Yes, I will take that one very seriously. Seven-year old Jared even gave me the gift of a special pen to write my next book!

Whether you believe in resolutions or not, a New Year can still be an important "new beginning" in life. Maybe it's not all about what we do or don't do. It begins with how we think, how we choose to view the world and to react to other people and situations. It's about learning to see, and appreciate, the silver lining in every cloud. About turning challenges into opportunities. Life's problems are frequently blessings in disguise.Only YOU can decide how to view your world - and what choices you will make.

Speaking of choices, it's easy to get into a rut, doing the same old thing. Trying to juggle impossible schedules and demands. No time to pursue old interests or new friendships. BUT, we can re-evaluate our priorities. It's a matter of understanding the natural rhythm of life. Sometimes we need to let go of things that no longer work in our lives (including relationships) or things we've lost interest in. By letting go, we free up space in our lives to pursue new adventures and follow our dreams.

Here's to new beginnings! Please stay tuned and stay in touch.

Janet Kay
www.watersofthedancingsky.com