Another Chapter

As a writer, it’s challenging to write differently from how I speak, but I learned. As a person, it’s challenging to live as someone else, but I’ve learned. I no longer speak and behave as I did in my youth. I no longer allow things to continue when they stand in the way of my usefulness. I no longer move blinded by emotions, reacting to circumstances.

Each of those traits are things from a previous version. The same can be said with writing. Once a character is written, killing that character is uncomfortable. But said character can grow and evolve from one chapter to the next. It’s not new, it’s called character development. The character introduced in a first reading grows and changes over time in most great stories.

“You’re the hero of your own story” has gained popularity in recent years. If that’s the case and I believe it could and should be, what thoughts have you put into your character development? How many new books will you read this year? How many courses will you take? How much time will you invest each week to develop your character? Which seminars, webinars, and lectures will you attend?

Each year people set out with resolutions for what they’ll accomplish. Unfortunately, most will abandon those resolutions before Valentine’s Day. Eighty percent is the number and the date is before the end of January. I’ve written more than once that words have power. I’ve also written that I’m happy I was taught to look up words I didn’t know the meanings of. In that vein, I’d suggest the same as resolution means a firm decision to do or not to do something. With the majority of people making a decision then resigning to change their minds within a month’s time, my sadness is profound.

My New Year’s resolution is the same as it’s been everyday since I found my purpose some six odd years ago. Oddly enough, I didn’t have to wait until a new year began to start or continue.

Today, Monday, January 2, 2023, I am grateful that:

Another chapter has begun. Much like the others, yet unique unto itself. It’s an honor so many didn’t receive and the ability to ring in the new year with friends and keep walking along this path is something I’m happy to be among those selected few.

I remain steadfast. It’s uncomfortable. It’s challenging. It’s life and I’ll live it to the best of my abilities. Each day doing my best, although today I did not. Today, my best was resting and relaxing. Tonight will prove quite the opposite.

I’m finding new ways to accomplish my purpose. Over the weekend another potential team member popped into mind. I’ll make the approach this week and we’ll see what develops.

Review the questions from above.

Be Great. Be Grateful!!!