Welcome to 2024! As we embark on a new year, it's time to leave behind the challenges of the past and embrace new beginnings. In the spirit of this fresh start, Dear Abby shares her often-requested list of New Year's Resolutions, adapted from the original credo of Al-Anon. These resolutions serve as a guide for living each day to the fullest.
First and foremost, Abby encourages readers to live in the present moment. Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, focus on making the most of each day. Setting unrealistic goals or trying to solve all problems at once can be overwhelming, so it's important to remember that small steps can lead to big changes.
Happiness is a choice, and Abby urges readers to decide to be happy. Rather than allowing negative thoughts to consume them, she advises chasing away clouds of negativity and filling the mind with sunshine. Acceptance is another key aspect of finding contentment. Facing reality, correcting what can be corrected, and accepting what cannot be changed is a powerful mindset for personal growth.
Improving the mind is a goal that Abby encourages readers to pursue. Engaging in reading that requires effort, thought, and concentration can help expand knowledge and stimulate the brain. Being agreeable and kind to others is also important. Abby emphasizes the importance of improving one's appearance, speaking softly, and listening attentively when others are speaking. It's a reminder to focus on personal growth rather than trying to change others.
Taking care of one's health is essential, and Abby urges readers to make positive choices. Quitting smoking and engaging in physical activity, even if it's just a brisk walk around the block, can have a significant impact on overall well-being.
In addition to these resolutions, a reader from New Delhi, India, shares a powerful message from the Holy Vedas and the prayer of St. Francis. These words remind us to be instruments of peace, to sow love where there is hatred, and to bring light to darkness. The message emphasizes the importance of giving, understanding, and loving others.
As we enter 2024, Abby wishes readers good health, peace, and joy. Her column, written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, carries on the legacy of her mother, Pauline Phillips. Readers can connect with Abby through her website or by mail.
In other letters to Abby, readers seek advice on personal issues. One writer expresses frustration with a controlling husband who demands she take his last name and restricts her interactions with friends and family. Abby advises her to seek legal help, as her husband shows no signs of changing. Another reader is concerned about their sister-in-law and her husband's defensive attitude towards suggestions for improvement. Abby suggests refraining from offering advice and reporting any signs of physical abuse to Child Protective Services.
As Abby concludes her column, she reflects on the passing year and wishes readers a happy and successful 2024. She encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly and prioritize the health and safety of themselves and others.
