I don’t recall ever having made New Year’s resolutions. I may have at one time, but the idea of it – no matter how well intended – seems just a lot of wishful thinking. (I do intend, however, to lose the five pounds I gained over the past couple of weeks.)
Just the same, I think this is a good time to reflect on the second factor of the eightfold path, Right Intention, or Resolve.
With the intention toward renunciation, I resolve to keep my needs to a minimum and to strive to hold in check sensual desires (with a special emphasis on the desire for things to eat).
With the intention toward harmlessness, I resolve to do as little harm as possible to anyone or anything.
With the intention toward goodwill, I resolve to avoid thoughts of ill will toward anyone, instead offering thoughts of kindness.
To see what others may be resolving (or not) to do this year take a look at the Top Ten New Year’s Resolutions and advice about how to keep them (even mentions meditation). Here’s a blog dedicated to the topic, but it seems the author gave up in mid-January of last year.
