A New Year, a new me? I don't think so!

From My Perspective

by Toni Walker

Here we are, a week into the New Year, and I am already tired. I am tired of all the cries of “It’s a New Year, there’s going to be a new me!” Now, I understand that we have all said that at some point in our lives, but let’s look at that, shall we? So many people resolve to do something each December, in hopes of making themselves better, or making themselves “new.” Everything from losing weight, to saving money, to making more money; all in hopes of making a “new” life for themselves or their families. And that all sounds great, if they truly plan to stick with their resolutions. But the truth is, many of us do not. It is either more difficult than we thought it would be, or it is something that, in reality, was out of our control. Many people have made resolutions to lose weight or to get in shape. My question is this: what is their decision based on? Is it based on medical advice that they need to lose (or gain) weight, or is it based on the perception society has of what is healthy or looks good? I would dare venture a guess that the majority of those who make that resolution are doing so for the latter of the two reasons. I have learned over the past year that, until you are doing an exercise regimen or routine because of the way it makes you feel, you will never achieve the results you are looking for. For a long time, I was hung up on a number on a scale. But, thanks to a great friend and mentor, I have learned that the scale is not a good judge of health or character. Through focusing more on how our workouts make me feel, I have come to be happier with my body. Besides, muscle weighs more than fat, and scales can’s tell the difference. So why not focus on the inner rewards of a workout? The outer results will come, when they are least expected. Keeping a resolution does not make anyone a new person. Neither does failing to keep them. The only thing that makes or breaks a person is their reaction to the events they encounter. They make the choice, in each situation, whether to be better because of an event, or bitter. My only resolution is that I will make the most of whatever I am dealt, and do my best to come out on the other side of each situation a better person. The situations, trials, and obstacles were not put in my life to make a new person. From my perspective, they were placed in my path to make me a better person. To continue reading this article, purchase the January 7th edition of the Steel Country Bee, or go to our online e-edition at: http://www.etypeservices.com/Daingerfield%20BeeID312/default.aspx