In Any Language...
Happy New Year!
Ready for 2025? Neither am I. But, lacking a choice in the matter, let’s make the best of it, shall we? Here are my resolutions:
RESOLUTION #1 BE A GOOD WORLD CITIZEN!
This year, I will try hard to be a better citizen of the world, not just the USA. It’s never been more important to connect with our brothers and sisters in other lands than it is right now…
Anticipating our most challenging trip yet, to Asia (in early 2026)…I WILL learn a little Chinese before visiting with Ya-Jhu’s family in Taiwan!! I WILL pick up a tiny bit of Thai (maybe Rose can teach me?) before we venture on to Thailand!!
What do you think? Can I do it?
Maybe, but probably not, you say? Oh ye of little faith!
"Ke neng" (可能) Maybe (Mandarin)
“naa ja mai chai (น่าจะไม่ใช่) Probably not (Thai)
I might get ambitious and learn MANY LANGUAGES (how hard could it possibly be?)
ARTICLE: SAY HAPPY NEW YEAR IN 40 LANGUAGES
Long, long ago I learned to sign The Lord’s Prayer to teach to the Sunday Schoolers. Alas, that’s where my ASL began and ended…but maybe this year?
VIDEO: “HAPPY NEW YEAR” IN AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE
RESOLUTION #2 MORE MUSIC! MORE ART!
This year, I will spend more time immersed in music and art. For Heaven’s sake, right here in Philadelphia we have a really fabulous orchestra, the world’s top music conservatory (The Curtis Institute, Sher’s alma mater), and art museums and galleries galore, including the incredible Barnes Foundation. What’s stopping me from going, enjoying, and learning?
RESOLUTION #3 JOIN THE GYM???
Join the gym (or just..watch a funny video about joining a gym?)
RESOLUTION #4 STAY ENGAGED WITH CURRENT EVENTS
I know, I know, so tempting to just go and hide, but we can’t afford to do that! Here’s a thoughtful piece on being a good member of society…
ARTICLE: What Does it Take to Be a Good Member of Society?
Media bias is always an issue. Here’s a reliable chart that rates news sources left, right and center. Very helpful!
If you’re casting around for a very even-handed nightly news broadcast, I recommend PBS Newshour!
BLOG PREVIEW (AKA RESOLUTION #5): BOOKS ON MY KINDLE I NEVER GOT AROUND TO READING
Not a thing wrong with any of them. So what’s my problem?
There! MORE than enough resolutions for me! Please do NOT check back with me next December and quiz me on my progress with any of these (and I will make the same promise to you—that’s what friends are for!)
INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE OF THE WEEK
Maybe this should be our one and only resolution this year? Happy 2025, all!!