Charlotte, NC

There’s very little mileage left in this clunker of an ‘07 model — but, before we push it into the dealership for trade-in on a brand-new 2008 model, we’ve got one more thing to do:
Make resolutions.
Guess some of you have already made yours … and, as always, a handful have already broken one or two of ‘em, even before the New Year begins! But, y’know, maybe it’s better that we stay away from the traditional “lose-weight-stop-smoking-go-to-church” lists (which, by the way, are great ones to have!) and go with something a little … well, different! Like:

• I’m gonna find at least one person per month who’s in need of a friend, assistance with a bill, food, or whatever … and help him or her!
• Throughout the year — in fact, starting today — I’m gonna cool my temper and think before I do anything that would harm someone, emotionally or physically.
• I will take one weekend off per month (or, if I have to work on weekends, two nights during the week) to spend solely with my family, whether it’s watching TV together, exploring the sights and sounds of Charlotte and its area, or polishing up an old, antique thing called just talking with them.

It’s not hard to find new and improved resolutions to make! But, if you’re gonna do it, make it a “resolution revolution!” Let those rezzies be ones that’ll benefit more than just you! Of course, keep the other ones I mentioned — they’re mighty good — but don’t let the others pass you by!

Oh … here’s an idea passed on by a little old lady I met in Wytheville, while stopping for a bite to eat before heading home from the last Ohio Championship Wrestling™ card (now, this one’s worth makin’ into a firm resolution):

“Every month, take some time to talk with your grandparents … you know, someone that’s ‘old’ … and ask them to talk about the ‘good old days’! You’ll be richer for it, and your young’uns will learn a lot. And it’ll make them (ie, the ‘old folks) feel good, too!” Folks, that’s word-for-word what she told me (I scribbled it down in longhand). Great idea, huh??

Anyway, the best wish I can give you for a great New Year is a modification of what I use as sign-off on the Relic’s site: “Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your head above water — and your heart with the music …”

See ya next go-’round …