It’s a New Dawn, It’s a New Day

Every time the first week of January rolls around, I can hear Nina Simone singing, “It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new life – for me. And I’m feeling good.” I love the way a new year stretches out in front of me…365 days of promise and possibilities, just waiting to bloom into brilliant reality.

I delight in the almost anticipatory attitude of a blank journal, waiting for my words to breathe stories onto its pages. I pore over the current crop of weekly planners with the innate understanding that my choice will not only record, but also help to shape, the 52 weeks ahead. I resolve, I goal set, I dream, I plan, and I believe. There is a communal sense of purpose and commitment everywhere we go, and as each of us charges the air around us with positive intent, I know that we are helping to manifest a greater good than our own annual wish list.

This year has even more in store, as we welcome a new decade. Where were you at the turn of the 21^st century? When you envisioned the 10 years to come, did you imagine your life would turn out as it is today? I changed my state of residence. I changed my marital status. I changed my last name. I lost my father. I kept my optimistic state of mind. I kept my ex as a dear friend. I kept the nickname I’ve had since birth. I gained a wealth of knowledge and self-awareness. I gained a ton of new friends, new skills, and a few pounds. But, most importantly, I never lost sight that each decade, each year, each week, each day is a gift…and, I just love presents!

What are your hopes and dreams for 2010? What is your plan to make them come to fruition? When you whisper in the ear of the universe, please join me in remembering those without a voice of their own – children in need, homeless animals, our precious planet. I wish you joy and success and laughter and love – a wonderful year and an adventurous journey through your own 365 little presents.

Cheers!