I love new beginnings, as evidenced by my constant moving.  There is a rhythm and familiarity to my constant motion, which I welcome.  Of course, it doesn’t require the bravery that moving to another state or country requires, where you must start fresh, building friendships, starting a new job, learning a new city or town, establishing all those places that are grounding forces in our lives.  The favorite neighborhood restaurant, the dry cleaner, cobbler, gym, and coffee shop.  Still – there is an excitement to the newness, and so the beginning of the year offers a similar opportunity to toss out the old – things, ideas, habits, and to re-establish.  Oh la la – the allure.  Even if your inclination was to resist – you cannot. Some foregone conclusions offer the most intriguing possibilities.  Don’t you think?

This Year is Yours by Alfred Lord Tennyson

God built and launched this year for you;
Upon the bridge you stand;
It’s your ship, aye, your own ship,
And you are in command.

Just what the twelve months’ trip will do
Rests wholly, solely, friend, with you.

Your logbook kept from day to day
My friend, what will it show?
Have you on your appointed way
Made progress, yes or no?

The log will tell, like guiding star,
The sort of captain that you are.

For weal or woe this year is yours;
Your ship is on life’s sea
Your acts, as captain, must decide
Whichever it shall be;

So now in starting on your trip,
Ask God to help you sail your ship.

How frightening and empowering to be the Captain of one’s own ship.  No fingers can be pointed, no one else to blame, I’ve set my sights on something, which I’ve been bold enough to name.  The coming year will track my progress and I hope you’ll track it too.  One must be kept honest or trouble will ensue.

If you are a resolution setter I hope yours will come true, and in your home you will imbue a certain sense of calm and welcome that represents all that is true.

Bonne et Heureuse Annee!