“Life’s Like That” first appeared in The Daily Record twenty-two years ago.. Now it is time for another New Year thought, I have approached the New Year from just about every angle. In 1993 I shared some ways you can make your new year better. They seem to me to make just as good sense in 2006:

1. Think first of someone else. The happiest people I know are those who seldom think about themselves. Happiness comes from turning outward, not from looking inward.
2. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. God placed you in one of the prettiest spots on His earth. The hills, the spring flowers, the clear skies and the most beautiful sunsets are to be found right here in San Marcos. Make a promise to enjoy them more this year.
3. Write a love letter to someone you love. Sometimes we get so used to that special person that we forget to tell him how special he is. Sit down and put it on paper. He will feel good and so will you.
4. Thank God for who you are and what you have. You are the only you in all the world. God has a special purpose for your life that no one else can fulfill. He has given you what you have. Thank Him for it and be glad in it, whether it is great or small.
5. Mend a quarrel. Most of us have a pet grudge that we have jealously held, sometimes for many years. This would be a good year to get rid of it. It is easy. Tell the other person you love him and ask him to forgive you.
6. Laugh a little . . . no, laugh a lot. There is an old cowboy saying in Texas: "Laughter kills lonesome." More and more research is showing that laughter really is the best medicine.
7. Say thank you. Be sure when someone does something nice for you that you thank him. Especially remember to thank God for His continuing blessings and grace. In Romans Paul writes that man broke God's heart by, as much as anything else, forgetting to say thank you for the gifts God gave to him.
8. Pray for peace on earth. Spend some time in prayer every day, and remember to pray for peace. Pray for our country and for those who lead our nation.
9. Deal honestly in all that you do. It is an old Texas tradition that a handshake is a sacred bond. That kind of honesty is rare today.

I wouldn’t worry too much about New Year’s resolutions if I were you. I have found that no matter how good my intentions are I am pretty set in my ways and I’m probably going to keep most of my bad habits. If it makes you feel good go ahead and resolve but don’t get down on yourself if it doesn’t work out.

Your best bet for a truly great New Year is to begin today to put others first. Learn to be a giver. I saw a tee shirt in Wal-Mart the other day that says a lot about our society. A young lady passed wearing a shirt that read: “It’s still all about me! Deal with it.” I hope that is not her true philosophy but if it is … she is not likely to have a happy New Year. It’s like Brother Dave Gardner used to say: “It is better to give than to receive … and if everybody gives something then sooner or later you are bound to get yours.”

Have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!