I’m reminded of a bit in the movie “Charlie Wilson’s War” where the character talks about a Zen master’s story of the boy who got a horse as a gift. The people all said, “how wonderful for the boy to get a horse!!” and the master said, “maybe, maybe not.” So then the boy fell off the horse and broke his leg, and the people all said, “how terrible for the boy to break his leg!” and the master said, “maybe, maybe not.” Then a war started, and because the boy had a broken leg, he couldn’t fight and the people said “how fortunate the boy can’t go to war”… of course the point is, short term accomplishments (perhaps even the fulfillment of goals) can prove to be positive or negative. As transitory events in life, we don’t know what the ultimate outcome of things will be. But a theme–well that’s more of a state of mind.

For me, when reality seems to be disappointing, I find reminding myself to love and appreciate what I have (rather than focusing on what I don’t), serves to put things in perspective. So-”love and appreciation” are my themes. At least for this year! As for next year…maybe, maybe not (but I think probably so).

Judy

It’s worth clicking on the link above and reading his whole post, but he wrote to his blog readers about someone who suggested he turn his blog into a money making machine with paid ads or a sponsor. His reply:
“Not only can’t I imagine charging for my blog, I’m practically in debt to the people who read it. Every time you read something I write here, you’re giving me a gift… attention. … It’s getting more precious all the time, you have more choices every day, and it’s harder and harder to find the time. I know. I’m grateful. I’m doing my best to make your attention worth it.”

He went on to thank his blog readers. So, for me, my theme will be “thanks.” I’ll do my best to make sure of my gratitude to our audiences our blog readers and our customers.

Thanks for reminding me to have the best New Year’s Resolution of all – a Theme for 2008.

Thanks.