The dawn of a new year often seems to bring pressure to make grand resolutions – familiar promises of weight loss, gym memberships, or ambitious goals. Yet I’ve learned to embrace a different path: the practice of approaching each day as a sacred opportunity for newness.
Instead of year-long resolutions that become difficult to maintain all year long, I’ve chosen to cultivate daily mindfulness. This shift has transformed how I move through life, teaching me that every sunrise offers a fresh canvas, unmarked by yesterday’s stories. Each morning presents a divine invitation to—begin again.
As Thomas Merton so poignantly wrote, “This day will never come again.” These words have become my compass, guiding me to recognize the profound uniqueness of each moment. They’ve deepened my capacity to listen, to connect, and to serve others with my full presence.
Recent tragedies remind us of life’s unpredictable nature. The heartbreaking events in New Orleans – my birthplace and home – where celebrations turned to tragedy and sorrow, show us how quickly everything can change. The people who gathered in New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl and New Year’s festivities never imagined their final moments would come amid the celebration.
This reality isn’t meant to instill fear but to awaken us to life’s precious nature. As we step into 2025, let’s carry this awareness not as a burden, but as an invitation to expect wonder, embrace miracles, and remain open to life’s infinite possibilities.
Living with this consciousness has heightened my commitment to create, write, teach, love, and serve. It’s taught me that while forever isn’t guaranteed, the present moment holds magnificent potential. Each interaction becomes an opportunity to share something meaningful, knowing it might be our last exchange of words or kindness. This understanding isn’t about morbid contemplation it’s about being mindful that our time here is both brief and boundlessly meaningful.
In this spirit, I invite you to join me in approaching 2025 not with a list of resolutions, but with a commitment to presence. Let’s honor each day’s newness, embrace its opportunities, and share our gifts with those around us while we can.
For today is a gift that will never come again. Let’s live it fully, love deeply, and serve generously.
May 2025 bring you peace, joy and magnificent health.
Dr. Paula
