Happy New Year to all!
Each year, since 1973, Pauline Phillips, better known as Dear Abby, has published in her New Year’s Day column an essay called “Just For Today.” I think it’s appropriate.
Just for today, I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once. I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.
Just for today, I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine.
Just for today, I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct and accept those I cannot.
Just for today, I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.
Just for today, I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I’ll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly, and not interrupt when someone else is talking. Just for today, I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.
Just for today, I will do something positive to improve my health. If I’m a smoker, I’ll quit. If I’m overweight, I will eat healthfully — if only for today. And not only that, I will get off the couch and take a brisk walk, even if it’s only around the block.
Just for today, I will gather the courage to do what is right and take the responsibility for my own actions.
OK, so I’m ignoring the quitting smoking part 😉
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
My mother kept this on her refrigerator. I haven’t read it in ages – thanks! I especially like, “I will refrain from improving anyone but myself”. Ouch. 😉
Happy New Year to you!
I have it on the bulletin board in my office. It’s a great reminder 🙂
Do the world a favor — quit smoking. Despite our disagreements, the world is a better place with you in it.
Take courage from my favorite teacher, Nikki Giovanni, who quit her two-pack-a-day habit cold-turkey. She did it, and you can, too.