(originally written 12/31/09)

This new year resolve to forgive others whether or not they ask for forgiveness, recognizing that we are all wounded, and that forgiving means we can be free to move forward and they can be free to work through their own issues.

This new year resolve to treat others with respect and dignity, recognizing that all human beings are made in the image of their Creator, and therefore are unique and valuable individuals.

This new year resolve to show appreciation, even when no one else is watching, because hearing “thank you” can lift another’s spirit, and saying “thank you” will definitely lift your own.

This new year resolve to look for the positives in difficult situations, because regardless of what is happening, there is always something good there if we look hard enough.

This new year resolve to be kind, recognizing that one kind word or deed can make a difference between hope and despair, and you may not ever realize the extent to which another person’s soul is impacted by your kindness.

This new year resolve to have boundaries, because in so doing we free others to be able to be themselves, and we free ourselves so we can love from our hearts.

This new year resolve to be yourself, because no one else on the planet is like you, and you are a gift from God, and you don’t have to change anything to be okay.