1. Value old friends and welcome new ones.  Friendships work to keep us vital and bestow a remarkable sense of zeal into our lives.
2. Smile at a children.  Believe it or not, you are an unwitting instructor and will be teaching a lesson of kindness that could remain a lifetime.
3. Cry when you need to.  Even if you have to retreat to a solitary space, don’t suppress tears.  Releasing emotion helps us to deal with other issues at hand.
4. Throw a picture party.  Every now and then it’s wonderful to pull out the albums and reminisce about happy times (maybe with cheese, crackers, and wine as accompaniments?).
5. Encourage your children no matter what their age.  We often need the support of our parents no matter how old we are!
6. Respect your parents.  They may never live up to the idealized images that reside in your head, but chances are they love you just the same.
7. Call an old friend.  Even if you are the one who made the last contact, pick up the phone.  Some people become preoccupied with everyday living and forget to stay in touch.
8. Treat yourself to a luxurious indulgence every now and then.  As long as the extravagance does not become habitual, no one is getting hurt (and you deserve it!).
9. Don’t beat yourself up over past mistakes.  No one is perfect, flawless, or devoid of error.  Instead, think of the misguided steps as learning tools.
10. Strive to be the best you can be.  As you do this, though, do not knock those around you.  Otherwise, your best will be the worst in you.

Another year has arrived, and with it comes a renewed sense of hope for the future.  May 2010 hold peace, happiness, and the fulfillment of all that is good within us.

1. Overlook the petty things.  Minor inconveniences should not be the reason to hurt someone’s feelings or mar an otherwise happy evening.  Try to give people (and yourself) some slack
2. Forego most impulsive purchases (particularly large ones). Buying a stylish tie or new lipstick is typically harmless.  Yet, multiple spontaneous purchases, especially on pricey items, could contribute to monetary concerns and usually do not provide lasting fulfillment.
3. Smile gently. Even if someone has an unkind face, smile.  A smile is free, and this simple act can transform a day from dreary to brilliant.
4. Periodically call and/or visit an elderly relative or friend.  The elderly feel valued in knowing people care (even if they never let on they are pleased).
5. Forgive your parents and/or children.  Sometimes we observe the weaknesses of our loved ones in our own reflection; we shouldn’t.  Forgive, and hopefully others will forgive us for our failings.
6. Follow up on an interest.  Maybe research the family tree or study a new language.  Some type of learning should always have a place in our lives.
7. Don’t neglect your needs.  Some individuals continually give of themselves, but they do so at the cost of their own well-being.  If you disregard yourself, it will be more laborious to help others.
8. Meditate or pray.  Regularly take the time to reflect beyond the immediate surroundings; it can help us appreciate life and its treasures.
9. Be thankful.  Despite the fact that our neighbor might have a larger home or better car, many Americans live more comfortably than others in the world.  Let us be grateful for all our gifts.

Where we are in our lives, and what stage we are experiencing in our growth, often times dictate what we allow ourselves to see.  A New Year will arrive independent of our development.  Within our means, may we always strive to value our blessings.  Happy New Year!