“Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.” – Hal Borland, American author (May 14, 1900 – February 22, 1978)

The festive season is upon us, but soon a new year and a new decade is upon us as of Wednesday, January 1, 2020. Under a Waxing Crescent Moon, we will begin a new adventure.

It is a common practice for some to make resolutions and promises to keep in the new year. These could range from breaking a bad habit, making healthy choices, traveling, making amends with a situation, or moving. A new year brings the hope of new things and changes.

I personally have made many resolutions in my past. Some lasted months, some days, and some minutes!

Not sticking to a resolution is not a sign of defeat or failure. I view it as it not being the right time.

Look around you. See what you think could use a bit of a change for yourself and the community. Sharing ideas with others is one of the best ways to bring those ideas to fruition. By speaking with neighbours and community leaders, you may be able to find common ground to make positive, well-intentioned changes.

Even if you are not one to make resolutions, you can still start a new year with a feeling of hope for ourselves, our loved ones, and our community.

I will be sticking to the resolutions I try to live by daily: to listen more, care more, learn more, and be more at peace.

As a proud columnist for 10 years with Boyle McCauley News, I wish everyone a happy new year!

Ian is a columnist and writer with the paper. He lives in the area.