New Year’s Resolution
I don’t recall ever making one in the past. If I did, I most likely didn’t follow through on it, so this one for 2023 will be my first, after more than 81 years.
My mother lived to be 85 and I think both of her parents lived well into their 80s as well. My dad almost made 92. He could have lived much longer, but it was clear that he saw no value in continuing after mom’s passing 14 months earlier. I mention these things here because if I can avoid stepping into an open man-hole or getting run over by a Greyhound , I probably have another decade or so to go.
I have never intentionally hurt anyone, nor have I stolen their treasure. I am not a particularly religious man, but my wonderment about the secrets of the Universe makes me spiritual to the limits of my imagination. I think I have contributed as much or more to the Earth than I have taken away, so it seems to me that I deserve to spend my remaining years, however many that may be, in peace.
Peaceful House
Beginning today, I intend to minimize unhappy moments around Patchen by ardently adhering to the following agenda and will insist that others do the same[i]Exceptions are allowed only when referring to politicians and woke journalists.. These rules are not intended to avoid inevitable conflicts or prohibit disagreements. Those things are necessary and healthy parts of being alive. Instead, it simply demands that, while on these premises, they are to be addressed through thoughtful and respectful dialog.
My resolution, therefore, is to adopt the following rules[ii]Note the provision in the list for future additions. of conduct for myself and all who visit Patchen, known as my. "Peaceful House Agenda" .
