Any Plans for The New Year?

As I wrote the other day, אחרי הגים after the Holidays is when we have no more excuses. It's time to do all sorts of things we've been postponing.

What are your plans?

Any doctors appointments or similar things you should have done but put them off?

Anyone you want to see, or should see but haven't made the time?

Is there anything you need to buy or order?

Is there something you need to do for your home?

When was the last time you went through things to see what can be thrown out? or given away? or fixed? Go through your clothes, books...

And what about that diet?

Now should be the time to start a walking/swimming/fitness routine, find exercise partners.

Sign up for an interesting or challenging class.

Make more time for your kids, grandkids, other family members and friends.

Make time for yourself.

And what about your bucket list? Do something you've always wanted to do.

Nobody lives forever.

Can't Complain, A Confession

Not long ago I would have been hysterically complaining about all of the inconveniences of last week's water problems, and I would have stewed inwardly seriously affecting my health and blood pressure about the high expenses involved.  But looking at the big picture and following the bima ima's never dull saga about her son Superman Sam has really reminded me of how precarious life is and refocused my priorities.

I used to have total hysteria about missing a bus or being late to something.  The breaking of a glass would be like a death, a major tragedy.  I was a terrible mother because of it.  I'd get hysterically angry over the most minor mistakes.  Everything was a Greek tragedy.  OK, yes, that's how I was raised, but it has taken me much too long to realize that I had to stop the cycle.  My kids had already left the house before I learned that I had damaged them.

I'm still learning how to smile and take things easily.  People say I've changed.  It has taken me years and years.

Judaism's concept of teshuva, repentance is a technique of constant change, correction, renewal.  With every breath we can do better, G-d willing.