By Gail Supplee Tatum, Columnist, The Times
Renewal comes in many forms. That’s what the start of a new year is. That’s what each birthday is. Think of winter, when everything goes dormant, waiting for the renewal of spring.
They are all forms of renewal and signify a rebirth.
As we “turn the page” to a new year, our minds may give thought to a fresh start. My mind always does, every year.
With a new year, it’s time to wipe the slate clean of any stress that consumed your life, last year.
Instead, focus on your readjusted plan and list your goals for optimal success. Stay on track. Know that you have what it takes. Believe in yourself. Believe in others. Be kind. Be grateful. Be a person of your word. Have integrity. Have character. Be a person who brings the good out in people.
The above words are not just for one day. These encouraging words can become habits, if practiced every day. This is a way of life that, if put into motion, can change the world, one person, one positive action or thought at a time.
This mindset, when shared through word and deed, can create the unequivocal ripple effect that we so desperately need right now.
Understand that as human beings, we are not perfect, so don’t be too hard on yourself. When faced with the struggle of negative voices in our heads, have a reboot plan for when obstacles knock you down, because it is likely to happen. It’s the getting back up, after a fall, and getting back on course that will build your mental strength to continue. Consider and embrace all of the possibilities that are there to shine through you. Cheers to a new year and another chance to get it right.-Oprah Winfrey.
Let your past and whatever didn’t turn out for you or go your way, be your lesson and NOT your life sentence. This is a profound message to internalize and never forget.
Find something that will be a reminder of all you want to do, be and accomplish throughout the year, like a word or an image, that when you think of it, it will light you up and give you the spark you need to keep going.
In the words of Vern McLellan, an American author, What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the year. A phrase I’m going to remind myself of every day.
Finally, my toast to 2022: Here’s to the start of a new year and the hope that new beginnings bring. May 2022 bring you health, happiness, peace in your heart and the courage to breakthrough your fears and accomplish what you set out to do, in order to make your life, your loved ones’ lives and the world around you a better place.
