Don’t and Do Resolutions

I don’t want to sing sad songs because there is too much to be happy about. An occasional ballad is okay, however, especially if Olivia Newton-John, Dolly Parton, or Celine Dion recorded it.

I don’t want to talk about presidential elections because I suspect greedy lobbyists and politicians control the Electoral College.

I don’t want to debate abortion and women’s rights because life begins at conception and should end only when God calls us home. Same with capital punishment and euthanasia.

I don’t want to count calories because everyone’s metabolism is different and at my age, I know I will never be a size ten again. Besides, food is fun.

I don’t want to exercise but I will because food is fun and so far, I am not wearing plus sizes and want to keep it that way. Also, exercise keeps me fit for climbing stairs and chasing grandkids.

I don’t want to die violently, but dying slowly is okay if I am comfortable and I have a chance to say goodbye to all my loved ones.

I don’t want to watch anyone I love die, but I would consider it a blessing if they allowed me to sit with them for comfort as they transition to a new life.

I don’t want to pay for unnecessary dental work. My teeth are not perfect, and none have fallen out, so a cleaning every six months is good enough to keep me orally healthy.

I don’t want to ride roller coasters anymore. I have had ample ups and downs in amusement parks and life. I prefer the Ferris Wheel from which I can enjoy the views and the breezes.

I don’t want to waste time stressing or worrying, although sometimes I cannot help it. It is a good thing I have distractions that keep me sane.

Despite all the downward thumbs…

I do enjoy making music with my voice, particularly praise hymns. I have also been known to belt out pop tunes from the 1970s, catchy country hits, folk songs, show tunes, and toddler melodies.

I do vote, though usually only in general elections, not primary ones. I consider voting a responsibility and an honor. My single supportive vote may not affect the outcome, but at least I have had my say.

I do like exchanging views about books, banned or otherwise. Discussing different religions is fine, too, as long as the conversation does not get heated, hateful, or hurtful.

I do feel grateful not to have any dietary restrictions. As previously mentioned, food is fun, especially pizza, peanut butter, ice cream, and chocolate, though not necessarily in that order.

I do appreciate the benefits of exercise, both the mental and the physical advantages. Whether chair yoga or hiking, exertion boosts my mood and self-confidence.

I do hope to continue living and loving in good health, with heartfelt prayers for the end of violence, injustice, sickness, and poverty.

I do desire for my loved ones to grow passionate in their belief that this life on earth, which we have been blessed to indulge in, is only a preview of a glorious heaven.

I do plan to visit my GP every year even if she hands me those dreaded lab orders. I gladly endure poking and prodding if it means early detection and prevention of unwanted ailments.

I do fancy adventures, provided they are legal and not too extreme. Think of trying out a new recipe, biking on a beach, taking a cross-country road trip, or floating in a hot air balloon.

I do spend time de-stressing: reading, writing, eating, exercising, singing, and soaking up the sun. When my habits and hobbies cannot assuage tension, I turn to Jesus, who once told a synagogue official, “Do not fear, only believe.” (Mark 5:36)

And I do.