Sunday, January 4, 2009

New Year's Day Tradition

Most people commit to resolutions written down or wished for in the New Year. Most people have a plan, a program on how to follow through.

Not disciplined enough to exercise—hire a personal trainer.

No time, lots of guilt over housekeeping—hire a cleaning lady.

Yearning for a higher level of spirituality—join a Bible study group.

There are as many ways to insure a successful resolution as there are resolutions.

My personal approach is steeped in maternal tradition and Italian superstition.

My mother would ring in the New Year with a tradition that I have carried forward into my adult life. I don’t know if her mother passed if on to her. I never asked just followed her lead. My husband and son know the drill all too well.

On New Year’s Day, I insist that we do a little bit of everything we’re hoping for in the New Year. A sort of passing it forward blessing on our lives. Upon waking my day is filled with a bit of this and a bit of that until I make myself a bit nutty.

One of the things I insist on for my family is that they wear something new, never wore before, on that day; this signifies they’ll have new clothes in the New Year. The article of clothing has been anything from new handkerchiefs to a belt to new socks. It doesn’t have to be a big ticket item it only has to be new.

How does this shake out during the day?

organize a drawer to lessen of clutter in my life;
or those with less;

clean a room to insure a modicum of good housekeeping all year;

read a little to insure there’s always time to enjoy a good book;

work on my WIP because I can’t not write every day;

write a check to a favorite charity because we can;

attend Mass—who can’t use more God time;

cook a big meal as a harbinger of plenty;

go for a walk as a metaphor for healthy activity;

visit with a friend to promote strong friendships;

talk with my family to keep us in touch;

glance over some business stuff to encourage prosperity;

finally get a good night’s sleep to promote good health.

What does this mean throughout the year? Usually means I don’t join a health club, don’t hire a cleaning lady, don’t join a Bible study group.

Does it work? The process helps me achieve a positive transition into the New Year.

Why do it? As the fiddler on the roof would say, Tradition!

And if you like this tradition wait till LaBefana arrives!

Anyone else have a quirky way to welcome the New Year? I'd love to hear it.

Luisa Buehler

1 comment:

Maryann said...

may not be as organized about New Year's day but we do try and have the house clean, a good meal (traditionally corned beef and cabbage) and I have my laptop on, even if it's only to write a few words. I'm a believer :o) My efforts don't always pan out, but the thought is definitely there. Have a great 2009!