today = the next 364

                                                                                                               snow buddha

I once read that the first day of the year is an opportunity to create the life you would like for the rest of the year. How you live today sets the tone and plants the seeds for the next 364. Do the things, if even for just a short time, that you love to do. Some years, I've rushed around trying to squeeze it all in on this one day, like speed-dating or something, completely missing the point and likely creating a more hectic year for myself.

Now I try to look at it as an all-day ritual to create a day as meaningful as I would like the whole year to be. To be with people I truly want to be with. To wear comfortable clothes and cook & eat healthy, delicious food.  Read and work on projects. Walk the dogs. Welcome darkness with lit candles, drink herbal infusion, and listen to good music.Take a bath. Be aware. Not rush.

There are sad things on this day, too, for all of us -- they didn't disappear overnight -- life school is still in session. But today, I will see them as a part of learning and growing and try to create a template for myself on how to live with them, as well. It's all good.

I love today even though it may not be perfect in every way -- and my ritual begins with writing this post.

I also loved this ritual. Do you have a new year tradition? Share?