As we pause the merriment of the High Holidays for Yom Kippur today, I sat down to reflect on my life over the past year. I wanted to take some time to think about how things have been, and what I will do differently going forward.
I’ve been very blessed over the past year. I have a husband and son that love me despite my (many) faults. They are my world. We are healthy, though we continue to struggle with minor health issues with Ethan–though nothing life-threatening. I have been lucky enough to be able to nurse Ethan for his entire first year, which is something I’m really proud of. We have food to eat, enough money to live comfortably, and a beautiful home.
Two years ago at the High Holidays, I prayed for a baby. Now that we’ve known Ethan for an entire year, I have to say he’s such a blessing. Don’t get me wrong–we knew from the minute we found out we were expecting him that he was a blessing. But he makes our life better every single day. He’s funny, he’s cute, he’s smart, and he loves us unconditionally. Even when he’s telling us “no no nonononono” like he loves to do frequently. He is loved by everyone who meets him.
Here’s the hard part–reflecting on what I would change. I feel very lucky to be Jewish. I get two “New Year” reflecting periods every year–one at the High Holidays, and one in January, with the rest of the world. This year, I’m going to focus on a few things now and a few things in January. I’m going to work on transforming my/our mindset now, and work on physical things (get in shape, various projects around the house) in January.
I’ve been doing a lot of reading over the past year about living organically, eating locally, and minimizing exposure to preservatives, toxins, and other questionable substances (that may or may not be banned in other countries). My primary change for the upcoming year will be to buy consciously. Some things, I’d like to start making from scratch again (bread, yogurt, some cheeses, cookies). Some things, I’d like to stop buying conventionally-farmed versions and buy either organically- or sustainably-farmed versions (meat, produce, etc). I will be buying locally whenever feasible (not whenever “possible”–I have to be a realist that I won’t be able to get to the farmer’s market some weeks and we’re still going to need to eat…even if that food comes from the west coast. Some things, I’d like to continue our in-process transformation, and continue replacing products with eco-friendly versions (body care products specifically).
I am also going to work on my mindset as a mom and wife over the next year. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m an impatient person who expects instant results. I need to work on my patience, and I also need to work on expressing the love I have for Ethan and Eric all the time, and be more considerate to each of them. Not just when it’s convenient, or when I’m in a good mood.
What needs work in your mindset over the upcoming year? What goals do you have for yourself this year to make yourself a more mindful person?
Wishing each of you an easy fast (if you’re fasting). G’mar Hatimah Tovah!
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