Pre-Boomer Musings

As a pre-boomer I’ve had the opportunity to make scores of resolutions over the years, most of which I broke.  So I have become reluctant to make these promises to myself, because of poor past performance.  But after thinking about it, I concluded this is a copout.  Surely there must be a resolution I can keep. 

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Losing weight would be nice and allow me to get into some of the clothes I have hanging in the closet for the day when I shed those extra pounds.  This would also keep my doctor from delivering his lecture every time I visit his office.  At my wife’s suggestion, I did reduce my waistline last year by cutting back on calories, but I certainly could do more.  Maybe adding moderate exercise, such as walking, to my daily routine and making healthier eating selections will produce results without causing me to center my life on food intake and a schedule of physical activities. 

The truth is I don’t really want to apply the discipline or take on the responsibility to do something another person thinks would be good for me.  I like my lifestyle and I like what I eat.  And, since my overall health is good, why should I want to deprive myself of good food and engage in the kind of exercise I once enjoyed but no longer feel compelled to do?  I guess the answer is, at age 73, to take on commitments that are designed to please me while not disturbing the lives of others – actions that make me feel better and allows those I come in contact with to feel better too.  It’s simpler and provides a greater chance of achieving success.  

So here are the resolutions I made for 2010:
1. Spend more time with friends
2. Make new friends and bring them into the circle of friends
3. Attend every school and sporting event involving my grandchildren
4. Let loved ones know they’re loved through words and actions
5. Get together with family members more often
6. Take a more active role in my community
7. Volunteer to help those in need or might benefit from my experience
8. Learn something new every day by reading, watching and doing
9. Laugh more and complain less
10. Consider eating wiser and engaging in an exercise program.

I think I can keep these resolutions.  In fact, these are promises I will make to myself  and do my best not to break.  The only exception is number 10, although I will at least consider it.

Let’s hope this year will be one of individual happiness, good health and prosperity.  And it turns out to be a year in which our nation experiences a resurgence of tried and true traditions, a return to common-sense solutions to our common problems and the re-birth of the American dream.  Happy New Year.    

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