Stuck for ideas on resolutions? Here is a new twist on the typical goals for the New Year.
By: Jamie Simpson
The ball has dropped, the festivities are over and 2003 has begun.
Walking down Main Street this New Year’s Eve, it was my objective to find out what the residents of Cranbury had in mind for their resolutions this year. I came across a small number, but I was surprised by how few had chosen a resolution to put into this time-honored annual tradition.
"Health and happiness for everyone, and for all of our friends and family to stay together," said Kathy Nikitiades, co-owner of Teddy’s Restaurant.
"I’d like to be in love and to find someone special," said Nancy Sharkawi, a resident who was bustling about town, finishing last-minute holiday errands.
These expectations for the future are important, but they seem more like hopes than resolutions.
As I trudged in and out of the various boutiques, restaurants and shops that line South Main Street, I was greeted with many puzzled expressions as I asked what people had in mind for this year’s resolutions.
"No, I don’t believe I’ve thought about one this year," an employee from the Cranbury bookworm said with an awkward chuckle.
Have we given up the idea of a New Year’s resolution in fear of not achieving our goals? Or, have our lives become so complicated with issues such as terrorism and global nuclear war that resolutions seem petty and pale in comparison?
Whatever the case, resolutions signify a fresh beginning and a chance to accomplish what was failed in the past.
So to all of you without resolutions, I offer a different list than the stereotypical vows to start exercising or quit smoking:
Smile more often. You’ll be amazed to see how differently people treat you when you appear to be happy.
Just once this year, do the one thing you’ve always dreamed of doing but never had the courage to go through with.
Mend a broken friendship. As the years progress, we realize how much we depend on the support of others.
Make it a point to tell your family that you love them at least once a week.
Try to stop wasting precious moments on worrying about the future. Worrying never solves problems, it merely makes them worse.
Perhaps choosing one of these resolutions will help to make 2003 a memorable one. Happy New Year to all!
Jamie Simpson is a staff writer with the Cranbury Press. She can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].

