Just For Today

In my opinion, the day hasn't properly started until the coffee consumed and the newspaper read. I ease into reality by starting with the Everyday section (which contains the comics, advice columns, and puzzles), then go back and jump into the news.

This morning's Dear Abby advice column is the same one that shows up every January first, but it's a good one; a list of New Year’s resolutions adapted from Al-Anon by the original Dear Abby (Pauline Phillips) and continued today by her daughter Jeanne Phillips. It was just what I needed to read today.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once. I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime. 

JUST FOR TODAY: I will decide to be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine. 

JUST FOR TODAY: I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct and accept those I cannot. 

JUST FOR TODAY: I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer. 

JUST FOR TODAY: I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I’ll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly, and not interrupt when someone else is talking. Just for today, I will refrain from improving anybody but myself. 

JUST FOR TODAY: I will do something positive to improve my health. If I’m a smoker, I’ll quit. And I will get off the couch and take a brisk walk, even if it’s only around the block. 

JUST FOR TODAY: I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibility for my own actions. 

Five years ago today: Here's To The New Year