A BETTER STORY

A new lunar year has just begun and, as if by magic, a crop of resolutions emerged in the backyard of my mind. For the record, this New Year resolutions is a Western thing. People in Taiwan (where I live right now) just wish to be healthy and happy and whatever positive influence the zodiac sign of the new year might bring, is well received. We, the Westerners, are into making lists and setting ourselves up for frustration. Well, not this time! No big plans, just flow state and zen.

On a serious note, if a new year is about change, renewal, or at least transition, like when you cross the doorway of a house, how is that reflected on us, as individuals? Do we have to change something or we just keep going? Sooner or later, we all stop and assess the surroundings to see if we are in the right place, going in the right direction, marching at the right speed, and traveling with the right people. This radiography can be made any time, so let's pretend this is a good time to have a life checkup.

I, for one, always start with a deep look in the mirror because you cannot fix the surrounding unless you fix your inner self. Honesty is the key word here! Am I doing my part in dealing with others or the things around me? Do I reach out or take action instead of waiting for things to happen? Do I have a story to share? My story of gratitude and success, of challenges, crashes, and resurrection? We are all on a journey since we took our first steps on this Earth and we are not done yet. We can still learn new things, meet new people, travel to new places, make better choices, change our story.

Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? (Mary Oliver)

My only resolution for this year is to try my best to make a difference in people's lives by how I carry myself, from the words I use to the actions I take, the kindness I show, and the choices I make. A medieval maxim says that bonum diffusivum sui est, which translates "goodness is self-diffusive". That means, one can have a positive influence on others just by being a good person. Surprisingly, some people come to life or feel empowered by just being seen or listen to. If you can do more, by all means, go be a hero or just "do small things with great love" (Mother Teresa).

So, what's your superpower that you want to use this year to change the world around you? Remember, the world needs to be healed from within and this process extends to your family, friends, or coworkers. Start with a smile and with the people you know before you jump into the unknown. You are not alone on this journey, even if sometimes it feels this way. Step outside your comfort zone, make yourself seen and heard and you'll be amazed how much of a difference your presence can make. You decide how your story will be told.