Happy Twenty-Oh-Eight!

Before I bore you with my account of the past year (you know how I drone on and on) or make you cringe at my goody-two-shoes new year resolutions, let me first wish all my friends a very Happy Belated New Year! Yes 2 weeks into 2008 but better late than never, right?

3 cliches come to mind at the start of each year. "Live life to the fullest!", "Have no regrets!", and last but not least - "Live everyday as though it's your last!"

There was this little article a couple of days ago, about a group of Koreans who believe that through a will-writing cum funeral exercise, they can learn how to live better lives. They cried when writing their will, attended their own funeral, and lay in a coffin in pretence of passing on. Ridiculous... although I'm sure they gained deep understanding of the hierarchy of important things in life.

It's really not necessary to lie in a wooden box in exchange for this insight. You probably have it figured out yourself. If not, simply ask your grandparents.

Nope, it's not losing that tummy you've spent so many years cultivating. Nope, it's not shopping for more luxury goods. Nope, not catching up with the Joneses. And definitely not spending more time in the office.

Instead, you should be cultivating your family relationships. Relaxing in the luxury of your home (be it condominium or 3-room HDB flat). Catching up with old friends. Spending more time with your relatives.

After all, family are those who love you unconditionally, even though they may not know how to show it. I'm not sure I know how to, either. And friends - those who know you and love you just the same.

Friendship improves happiness, and abates misery, by doubling our joys, and dividing our grief. - Joseph Addison

Yes, these are the things that are truly important.

Back to you, kev.

What ARE your resolutions, huh? No cigarettes to quit, no tummy to lose, and if I drink any less than I do now, I won't have a social life at all.

Well, this year, I'll work towards being more honest with myself and frank with others. More encouraging to my friends. Have a better memory of people's positive traits, but be more forgetful when people wrong me. Less critical of others, more open to criticism. More content, finding joy in simple things. To be a happier person all year round.

Super goody-two-shoes, huh?

You can go puke now, if you haven't already.

But at least I can tell Santa I've been good all year round.