My Thoughts and Hope for 2022

2022 New Years Resolution from Arlene Caplan Appelrouth

So much about life today seems unprecedented. Politics. The pandemic. Climate change. Life itself has become unpredictable.

When I ask myself what it is I want in this new year, many questions come to mind: What do I want to give? What do I hope for? How do I want to spend my time? Who do I want to spend time with? What do I value? What am I sure of?

What I know for sure is we all come with an expiration date. I want to spend time with the people who matter to me. I want my life to make a difference. I want to be authentic and give the best of myself to those I love. I want to be mindful, intentional and generous. I want to be accepted for who I am and to accept others for who they are. Most important, I want to stay aware of all I’m grateful for. An attitude of gratitude is essential for serenity and inner peace. Conversely, there are some things that are wrong, and with effort I am capable of effecting change. When I become aware of problems for which there are solutions, I want to do everything I can to help.

Last, and very important, I want to keep my self-talk positive. I recently read a book by a neuroscientist whose message was life changing for me. Negative thinking is destructive. My intention for the next year is to stay positive. The way to do that is always look for the good.

Arlene Caplan Appelrouth is a contributor to the Atlanta Jewish Times.