New Year's Resolutions

January 1, 2009

I’ve had an incredible, remarkable year and I’m so, so grateful. I look back on 2008 and grin: I started the year last January, letting my former school know that I was leaving teaching...and I did it. That still amazes me. I did it. With the economy tanking, I walked away from a salary and benefits and I couldn’t be happier. My alarm goes off early in the morning and I smile and do a little dance (like a kid on Christmas morning) because I get to get up and go do what I love all day long. That’s how I feel: I get to do this! I am determined not to take it for granted. I savor it.

I’m also so grateful to all my wonderful readers and the many book clubs I’ve visited. I treasure the e-mails and letters, and the encouragement and support. You’re the people keeping my books alive and I thank you from the bottom of my joyful heart.

I’m thankful that my Year as a Gypsy has taught me so much about myself...not the least of which is how little material possessions matter. My life is much simpler—and yet much richer—for it.

I’m thankful that the universe has unfolded time and time again, giving me signs that I’m on the right path. Every day is a gift and I look forward to unwrapping each one.

It’s difficult to think of further wishes or resolutions. I do resolve to practice what Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love. Resolve to read this if you haven’t already!) calls “diligent joy”—to savor and pay attention to all the beauty and happiness in our lives. I know, I know, this sounds so corny, but it works!!!

My wishes for 2009 include the big ones: financial stability for the world and more specifically for the friends and family I know who have lost jobs, an end to violence in the lives of every child on the planet, the continued safety of our President Elect, and for everyone (including myself) to find HAPPINESS and CLARITY.

Happy New Year! May 2009 hold great things in store for you and yours!