New Year’s challenge

This New Year and every year after always bring new beginnings.

 Like the mythical phoenix reborn, the fresh start effect is always exhilarating. It's when you let go of the bad vibes, embrace the good ones, and look forward to whatever the morrow will bring.

I no longer believe in making New Year's resolutions after several failed attempts in the past. Once, I resolved to sleep early and get at least 8 hours, but I severely lost this battle on day 2 of January itself. I sleep late but wake up early; this pattern I wanted to break through a New Year resolution but could not. There was even a year when I resolved to save 20 percent of my monthly income, but the ever-spoiling father I was never got past the second month. Again, expect results to be the same tomorrow if what you are doing today is the same as yesterday.

Now, one can make significant changes at any time of the day or the year without being constricted by a self-imposed deadline. I look at each day as a new start and try to be a better version of myself. I draw past and present mistakes in my mind to avoid committing them again.

I like change and the permanence it brings. It is the only stable thing in the world, and each of us has the ability to make this happen regardless of social standing. As the famous scientist Albert Einstein once said, "The world we have created is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking."

Letting go of anything in the past is heartbreaking, and taking the blame is equally painful. But what's the point in dwelling on the insignificant, the intolerable, and the unconscionable when moving forward offers the key to whatever you wish to pursue or have a better chance in life?

Do not tremble when faced with criticisms or resistance when you upset the establishment or status quo. Instead, anticipate and adjust expectations. Innovation leads to discoveries worth exploring, and unbridled courage always comes from hearts that constantly ask, not those that stop in safe mode.

Breaking free from old habits and trying new ideas is always heartwarming. By challenging, we weigh different perspectives, adjust, manipulate, and make room for personal growth, transformation, and massive improvement. Of course, there is always a fresh start and, at times, screwed endings. Nevertheless, we should encourage a mindset that challenges the status quo, not to stand still.

This year is also the best time to prepare and make meaningful decisions when we choose our local and national leaders next year. Should we preserve the status quo, choose the old, dull hands, or opt for newer, exciting alternatives with better governance policies? Discernment will be essential in our decision-making, so let's take this opportunity and responsibility to effect a meaningful change in our society.

I have a confession to make. Like some Filipinos, I'm not fond of political dynasties. Wisdom and good governance are not the monopolies of a particular clan or its affiliates. There are always sparks of brilliance everywhere; people deserve a ray of sunshine to light their way.

Mayors Vico Sotto of Pasig, Benjie Magalong of Baguio City, Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Lagnada, and even former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, to name a few, were examples of unfamiliar but bright spots in the political process when they first started. Unlike their opponents, they were more optimistic about change, so they bravely challenged family politicians in their jurisdictions and made significant strides in building progressive model cities of good governance for others to emulate.

Indeed, letting go of bad memories does not mean detaching oneself from the past but providing a soothing relief from the emotional burdens they bring.

In celebrating the New Year, feel free to bring new food and ideas to the menu if you prefer something other than the family table's regular fixture. It is not a show of disrespect but of willingness to spend, share, and take responsibility.

Let this year be the start of our reawakening from the shadows of abuse and corruption. Like a phoenix, let's rise from the ashes of past misdeeds to bring new hope, courage, transformation, and renewal to humanity.

May we continue to spread good tidings to everyone as we turn another page in this exciting book of life. Be the change you wish to see in the world!

(You may send comments and reactions to feedback032020@gmail.com or text 0931-1057135.)