Looking forward, looking back

It's typical, at this time of year, to look back and to look forward. I'd like to try something different.

Let's look at Now. It's too easy to get wrapped up in the future -- planning for it, hoping for it, wishing for it. Will my book be published? Will people like it? Will I make the X list? And looking back can make your head spin! Hindsight is always 20/20. Just accept that what happened -- happened. Now cope with the consequences.

Too often we forget about Now. Today. Right now. Try to pause and enjoy this day. We're in the middle of a festive holiday season. Take a deep breath and smile at those decorations, laugh at a movie, or just stop and enjoy the bright displays in the windows. Don't let expectations color your gift shopping (or your gift receiving). Every day is a gift to be savored, even those days when your arthritis hurts or your paycheck is too small or the heat just isn't warm enough to battle the wind chill factor. Every day is a new day, a new beginning. Don't wait for a new beginning until January 1. Start today -- in fact, start every day that way.

Look forward to tomorrow, savor the past, and enjoy today. Life is a gift we can all enjoy.

Have fun!

J Wilson