The first definition for resolution is "... a firm decision to do or not to do something." That seems to be the definition that best describes what New Year's resolutions are all about (except for the "firm" part). Although definition 2 also comes close: "... the action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter. Assuming the problem is related to weight gain, getting in shape after holiday binging, or improving a relationship at home or on the job.

We recently stopped to say hello to a friend, let's call him George, who was in town visiting relatives. After a pleasant hour or so of socializing, we rose to leave. He walked us to the door and as we said our farwells, George announced to me, "You've gained weight, but in a good way!" As far as I'm concerned, there is no 'good way' to gain weight! I immediately began my list of resolutions. (No, tempting as it may be, ending my friendship with George was NOT added to the list!)

My resolutions usually include getting in better shape, but that one's perpetual and a given. It's the rest of the list that inspires (and torments) me as the days and months slip away. (In truth, by the end of the month, my list is long forgotten. Either the "suggestions" have become a part of my conscience and subconsciousness, or they're pushed to the possibility of a future list, or for some, the land of nevermore.

Another of my perpetual entries is the quest to produce more music, in the form of songwriting, and the recording of new CDs. (The plan formed over the holidays to create a new Christmas CD with the help of friend and pianist Dennis Borycki. If you have a holiday favorite you'd like to be included, NOW is the time to make the suggestion.)

How about this for an ambitious resolution... Our friend James Hersch ("It's Only Lonely Sometimes" AKA "The Grandmother's Song"), decided he will write 52 songs in 52 weeks. (If you'd like to join in the fun and listen to his wonderful music, here's the link to his facebook project: James Hersch 52 songs) I'm using James' commitment as a beacon for my own musical creative output.

And how about my artwork... Just before Christmas, we had to pack up all my best paintings and ship them to a gallery in Athens, TN where they will hang for the month of January. As we took them off the walls and carefully wrapped them up, I was lamenting the fact that our walls would be bare or donned with lesser paintings when my mother arrived for a holiday visit. This motivates me to paint more in the coming year. We need to have enough paintings to cover our walls AND ship out to the wonderful art centers and galleries who request an exhibit of BBH works. (When we drove Mom back to North Carolina, we took her on a mystery trip to the gallery. This is the first time she's had the opportunity to see a whole group of my paintings in one place.)

There are the usual 'want to be a better person' items on the list, ...be more generous - locally, nationally, and globally, ...listen more, ...be kinder, and more loving to my Christo, family, and friends, ...read more, ...watch less TV, spend less time on the computer... I think I'll work on that resolution starting right now.

Wishing you much joy and success with your resolutions for this new year, and for life in general...

And peace.... especially peace - locally, nationally, and globally.