Welcome back! I hope that your break was great and held some rest and refreshment, as well as plenty of time for holiday celebration and time with people you love!
There is always something fresh and hopeful about a new semester, even if your classes and other commitments are a little daunting. With the start of spring semester so soon after the new year begins, this is often a time to consider what new beginnings you are anticipating, what changes you’d like to make in your routine or your life, or the new ways you want to shape yourself in this new semester and this new year. The new year is not so very old. There is still plenty of time for a new beginning.
I am looking forward to creating some new patterns while working on some new projects and I want to renew my commitment to reading actual books (and not just news on my phone). I’ve talked to students who are looking forward to:
- a specific class in their major this semester
- returning to regular exercise
- meeting new friends in their final semester
- expanding their education
- growing and improving themselves
- starting a new job
- finding new perspectives and attitudes
Though I have heard that very few of the “resolutions” people make at New Year’s Eve are ever actually accomplished, there is still plenty of reason to begin anew at a time of transition. Even if the day to day realities of actual life sometimes undermine the optimism that fills us as the new year approaches, trying a new beginning is a way for us to grow and shape our lives in ways we desire. Plus, every new day offers another opportunity to begin anew; to start over.
May this new year and new semester provide ways for each of us to seek out and embrace new beginnings. May we be surrounded by people who can walk with us through the challenges and gifts that change may bring. May God bring us peace and joy through new opportunities and discoveries and beginnings. Happy New Year!
Peace,