As we find ourselves riding the wave of the highest infection rate of COVID-19 since this pandemic began, the usual New Year’s resolutions we make are pointless. Honestly, who gives a crap if anyone looses weight or works out more. We have bigger demons to slay. With this in mind, here is my short list of intentions for 2021. Perhaps you’ll find a few of them helpful as you think about your own intentions for 2021.

I will survive this virus. I will continue to follow all the standard protocols for reducing my chance of getting the ‘rona. Yes, it’s been 10 months of mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing. Yes, we’re all tired of being careful. But I will not let my guard down for the sake of my family and the faith community I serve. I have a deep personal conviction that my obligation to love and serve others and the planet takes resident over my perceived individual “rights.” If more people acted this way, we wouldn’t be in the precarious situation we’re in now.

I will strive to be a kinder and more empathetic person. We will never heal our nation if all we do is fight each other. Telling others how stupid they are for believing what they believe only deepens the divide. There is a difference between standing firm in our convictions and beating someone over the head with them. Some of these conspiracy theories will play out and be exposed for the the untruths they are. When our neighbors and friends come to their senses “I told you so” is not the right response. “Welcome home” is the better option.

I pledge to narrow my focus in 2021. Being outraged all the time over what’s happening in our nation has left me feeling exhausted and powerless to do anything about it. I have discovered that I feel more energized and hopeful if I focus on making a difference in the community where I live. I plan on continuing to support local charities in my area who are doing heroic work during this pandemic. I will also continue to check in with my neighbors and those who are a part of my faith community to see how they are doing. We can all make a difference in the life of at least one other person, so let’s do it!

Well, that’s my short list. Along the way I’m working on a few new projects including a book I started a few years ago and never finished. For whatever reason, the Universal Spirit has told me to get my butt in gear and finish it, so finish it I shall!

I wish all of you good health and happiness in the New Year. Thank you for your support of my blog. I hope it has been, and will continue to be, helpful to you on your spiritual journey. Blessed be!