The Merriam-Webster dictionary has four meanings for the word resolution: 1) the act or process of resolving; 2) the act of solving; 3) the quality of being resolute; 4) a formal statement expressing the opinion, will or intent of a body of persons.
I bring this up because I think the "New Years' resolution" ritual is overrated. There is far too much effort put into making false promises to yourself that you'll just try to accomplish the next year, and the next year, and so on.
Perhaps rather than resolving to stop something (overeating is one of the most common) maybe it's time to start some things. Start using "please" and "thank you" more often.
Start showing some courtesy to people around you, such as holding the door - which would be a good place for the other person to say thank you - or letting a car get through the intersection, resulting (with hope) in that thank-you wave.
Start thinking about what you're saying around other people. Certain derogatory phrases such as, "That was really gay," can be offensive to people. Gay does not mean stupid. It never has, according to the dictionary: 1) merry; 2) bright, lively; 3) brilliant in color; 4) given to social pleasures; 5) homosexual; also of, relating to or used by homosexuals.
Gosh, homosexual isn't even the first definition of the word. Although I will admit the fourth definition is new to me. Notice, however, there is no mention of stupid.
Sometimes you can start a trend: smiling. Smiles are contagious. Of course, this doesn't mean you should seek out someone who is obviously having a bad day and just stare at that person smiling, waiting for one in return. That result could be less than pleasant. But, it certainly helps some people throughout the day just seeing other people smile.
Throughout the course of the three semesters of my writing this column (it's the Spectrum column, not the Billie column) I've been recognized while at work, around campus, or even at the store. But, it is time for the torch to be passed on to someone new and perhaps refreshing.
Starting next week, or the week after, there will be a new face or two to the column. I've enjoyed sharing with you, and I hope you have benefitted from this sharing. Those of you who are relieved someone is taking over, at least something I've done will make you happy.
And, if you see me around, I hope you'll give me a smile.
Write to Billie at billie3446@hotmail.com
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