The best resolution for 2023 is to be a friend for someone

As we usher in the New Year, the customs, and traditions that January brings start to creep back into our daily lives. We will date out cheques incorrectly; we may complain about how much weight we gained over the holidays, and we usually make resolutions that won’t be kept.

We have seen the passing of another year. There have been times when experiences and certain events brought us happi-

THis week, THIS MONTH

by Larry Ellis

ness and we have laughed. For others, there has been pain and tears, some of us have said goodbye to longtime friends or loved ones and we have cried.

If you are having trouble making resolutions for the New Year, I have some thoughts that might help all of us be better people and might even cause some change in this mixed-up world as well. First, we can start by making a resolution to just be better friends. The only way to have a friend is to be one, and this means 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Ask yourself, “when was the last time you really went out of your way to help a friend?” “When was the last time you spoke to or visited that elderly neighbour or the new family that just moved into your neighbourhood?” “When was the last time you just told a friend how much they mean to you?” Being a better friend won’t cost you anything, it can be done every day, and the positive effects are im- measurable! Think of how much better this place could be if we just cared a little more and loved a little stronger each day. Don’t let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

Remember that each moment, each hour, each day is a chance along life’s journey to keep these resolutions. Remember that by changing ourselves, we can make a change in the world around us. Remember to stand by one another during life’s peaks and valleys, offer a shoulder to lean on when life’s load becomes a burden. Remember these three “Rs”; Respect for self; Respect for others; Responsibility for your actions. Happy New Year! Happy Robbie Burns Day!