GUESTLIST

Today is the last day of our current year. A lot of people will spend this day reflecting back and setting new goals for a new year. Some will look back, stay there and wallow for awhile. Awhile is ok. Trying to live there is not.

It is said regret is the most tiresome of companions. I couldn't agree more. So why bring him along for a new year? Let him find his own party. You have a party hat to put on, noisemakers and fireworks to share, bubbly to drink and, as one my friends put it, tables to dance on. What are you waiting for? If you need a companion, take Gratitude along with you. No matter where you are or what you're doing, she makes a great buddy. Cultivate her friendship and learn to hang out with her-you won't be sorry.

If you still don't feel that's enough, ask Laughter to come along too. He's also a wonderful companion, likes Gratitude and is willing to share with all. No party, no new year, no life is complete without him.

And if you're still struggling with letting Regret off the hook and insist on having a difficult party guest, how about inviting Forgiveness to take his place? The most difficult and yet, the most sought out guest of them all. He won't come unless Gratitude is there and he can't come unless you beg him, but he will come. And he will bring Peace. And he will open doors for you, escort you to all the needed places and always be there when you need him. But you will always have to ask. You have to think you deserve his company before you get it.

None of these things are constant companions. We have to make an concentrated effort (at least at first) to keep them, while Regret doggedly follows us anywhere anytime. He's up for anything and usually brings along Sorrow and Sarcasm for extra company. And I might point out that all of them absolutely despise Laughter and simply cannot be in the same room as Gratitude, Forgiveness and Peace. So who's it gonna be? The list is yours to make.

Happy New Year everyone.