January 1, 2023
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. Happy New Year everyone! Here we are, it’s the first day, and first Sunday, of 2023! Typically, I begin each year with an inaugural run. There have only been a few years that I’ve been unable to run on New Year’s morning. The missed days were primarily due to work schedule or an injury, but I always enjoy kicking off this day with exercise. This year (today), I’m unable to get out there and run. I fractured my ankle four weeks ago, so it will be March until I rejoin the running community. For me, running outside (in nature), has been a fantastic avenue for exercise and stress relief. Just being outdoors, brings many perks and health benefits; physically, mentally and spiritually. I’m not a “New Year’s Resolution” kind of person. I’ve seen too many people say a variety of things about what they’ll do, at beginning of a new year, but rarely follow through. Maybe these individuals think they need to share something to fit in with their friends or conform to what society expects. Every January, I see many new faces at the gym, out running, at yoga or attempting something they have no real desire to follow through. By February the new influx has decreased and by March the “resolution” folks are gone. I’m a firm believer that change is good. It’s one of the constants in life. Change creates opportunities for us to evolve, alter our thoughts, perceptions and lives. It can bring a fabulous and amazing transformation into your life, but only if you allow it. If you are instrumental in encouraging this process; by setting goals or making plans for yourself to achieve what you desire, it’s all the better. Today can mark the beginning of a fantastic new time and adventure for each of us. The potential for this amazing opportunity is yours to grasp. One of the best parts about being human, is we can always recreate ourselves. Any day works, but especially January 1st, is a great occasion to set new objectives, goals or plans for your future. Just say no to resolutions, then set your plan in motion to make 2023 better, more productive, healthier or happier than previous years. Involve friends, family or me; to keep you on track. It’s never too late.
Let’s face it, “Father Time” slows down for no one. As I get older, time seems to pass by so much quicker. You may not understand or share this experience now, but just wait, it’s coming. When I was growing up, my Dad shared his thoughts on how quickly the years passed, especially during the Holidays. I didn’t really understand what he was telling me at the time. I was young, and felt I had an entire lifetime ahead of me. Now that I’m retired and the years pass by faster, I want to slow myself down as much as possible to savor and enjoy every moment of life. We (humans) are very fortunate for all we have on this planet. America is a nation of abundance and prosperity. If you doubt this, I suggest you travel to other nations that are less fortunate than the USA. I guarantee you won’t have to venture very far. People, across the globe, exist with far less and are much more grateful and respectful than many individuals I see here at home. Acquiring more possessions doesn’t create happiness and these objects won’t make the time last any longer. An old proverb says, “a foolish person dreams of wealth, while a wise person dreams of happiness.” The gift of life is a precise commodity; not to be wasted on ego or negativity.
Life is a process and we all struggle from time to time. I begin each morning with happiness, positivity and gratitude. There are times that negativity, sad feelings or emotions attempt to creep into my day. These thoughts try to overwhelm me, but only if I allow it. Sorrow is an inevitable part of being human. It’s my responsibility to control my mind and the thoughts that enter it. Rather than letting these memories engulf my mind, it’s best if I recognize the experience, acknowledge it and deal with it immediately. I lost my Dad to a form of blood cancer, just before Christmas, nine years ago. I miss him every day, but there are certain times of the year that magnify these feelings. The holidays are certainly one of these times. I’ve often wondered why my Dad asked me so many questions as I grew up from kid to adult. He always seemed to be checking up on what I was doing, who I was with and where I was going. I never fully understood why until I became a father. When I became a Dad, I quickly learned why my own father was so involved and interested in my life. I know my daughter, especially since she’s an adult, may be wondering the same thing I did with my Dad. If and when she becomes a parent, I know she’ll fully understand all of my questions and my checking in with her too. As her father, my concern for her will never diminish or fade. My love for her is unconditional and eternal.
We (each of us) are the keepers of our own happiness, joy and love. If you aren’t creating and maintaining a life filled with happiness, you can’t expect others to do it for you. We are all human beings. We each have a unique personality and gift to share. Don’t ever be fearful to be yourself. We are on this planet for a limited time. The clock never stops ticking. You are never too old and it’s never too late to set new goals, dream new dreams or seek new adventures. Work hard every day to achieve what you desire. The answers and solutions to the questions you ask are within each of you. The ability to find those answers is within our own capacity to slow down and allow them to flow from our thoughts. Trust your intuition. It’s your source of power and strength. My plan for the new year is to get out in nature every day. Whether I use the time for a run, walk or just doing yard work; getting my body out in the sun is great for my physical, spiritual and mental health. I know some individuals will say they don’t have time. I say it’s easy to make time. Take a 20-minute break, use part of your lunch break or go for a walk when you get home. Great health begins with nature, sunshine and the outdoors. Invest in your health by taking better care of you. Eat healthier foods. Rest your body, mind and spirit. Begin each day with gratitude, happiness and positivity. Love your life and it will love you back. Lao Tzu said it best, “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while deeply loving someone gives you courage.” The rest is up to you. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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