Resolutions.

Yep, that New Year's tradition we all try to use to improve our lives. And then try and stick to then as the year moves on.

Fitness clubs and weight loss centers all get a huge influx of new members in January. By February, usually, that crush of new members dwindles down and things get back to normal.

Which reminds me, are you still paying for last year's gym membership? When was the last time you went? See what I mean?

My question is a simple one: why do most people's resolutions seem to be a form of punishment?

I looked around on the internet for the top ten resolutions average Americans make. This is what I found:

1. Quit smoking
2. Lose weight
3. Quit drinking (apropo after New Year's Eve for many)
4. Go back to school
5. Spend more time with family
6. Try something new
7. Work on spiritual growth
8. Take a vacation
9. Pay off my debt
10. Get a better job

Most of these resolutions seem to be tough to continue on a long-term basis. Stuff just happens and we get put off of our course.

Yes all of these resolutions are good ones. Just imagine how much your life would improve if you quit smoking, lost weight, didn't drink as much, went back for some adult education, spent some quality time with your family, went out and tried something you've been wanting to do, grow spiritually, actually took a real vacation, paid off your debt and got a better job.

Wow, that's a lot of stuff to do! In fact a friend of mine would add that it would make you boring as well. But that's another blog entry.

Maybe it's time to look at resolutions a little differently. Instead of making resolutions that are some form of cruel medieval punishment or based on what you want or are self-centered, let's try a different approach.

You do something for someone else. Give a small piece of yourself away.

This idea popped into my head last week when I drove by these two girls on the side of the road with their mom. They had these small signs made with highlighter that I could barely read as I drove by.

The sign just said "Snowcones".

I turned around and went back and bought a snowcone. It was hot that day and it really tasted wonderful -- sugary and cold and really strawberry. It was more of a smoothie than a snowcone but I really enjoyed it.

I asked them how much and they said fifty cents. What a bargain! I gave them a few dollars and told them to keep the change. They were so excited! It really made me smile and gave me a few new ideas.

Here's my list of resolutions ...

1. Keep a few singles in the car in case I pass a lemonade or snow cone stand on the side of the street.

2. Don't ignore the beggars on the side of the road, at least acknowledge them. And you do have those ones in the car.

3. Let those in-a-rush drivers in front of me, even if if they don't use their turn signal.

4. When in the Express Lane at Publix, let that person that has fewer items than me, go first.

5. Volunteer somewhere with my daughter so she begins to understand there is life outside Wellington.

6. Visit more mom-and-pop restaurants than chains. I think they will appreciate it much more. Don't forget to say a blessing.

7. Although I have in each election since I can remember, encourage people to vote.

8. Sit down, turn off the TV and play a board game or read with my daughter each week.

9. Say "please" and "thank you" more often, and really mean it.

10. Take a few minutes each day to admire just how wonderful our world really is.

What about you? How about adding to the list with yours?

Thanks and have a Happy New Year.

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