Sam’s New Year’s Resolutions

Sam and I went for a walk. Not unusual, right? But this was different; different because it was the New Year and it was time to assess.

Never been big on resolutions. Why wait until a new year?  But I am big on rebalancing and being reflective on what has been and what’s to come. And a walk, a good one, can be the perfect vehicle for moving forward.

Sam thinks so, too.

* * *

So, we stepped off to the park. A bit over a mile-and-a-half. Not a serious hike in any way, but we did try to make it brisk. And halfway, when we arrived at a bench near the pond, we took a seat together and I asked Sam a question: What is it that you resolve for 2020? 

There was a sigh and slight growl aimed at a quacking duck on the water. Then, I thought I heard her say …

—I’m going to try to stop barking at the mailman. (Really, Sam? Pretty cliche, don’t you think?)

—I’m going to cut down on stealing your slippers and sleeping with them. (That would be nice. So I wouldn’t have to search around the house for them every morning.)

—I’m not going to get so anxious when you leave. I know you’ll come back. You always do. (I hope you can keep that one, Sam, for your sake.)

—I’m not going to sniff at every leaf, tree trunk, and shrub on our walks. I know that drives you crazy. (It does, Sam. A sniff or two is fine, but every few feet?)

—Lastly, I’m going to try to make better friends with the dog across the street. We’ve been trying and it’s been pretty good, but I need to nurture that relationship more. Maybe some walks together? Play time in the backyard? (I like it, Sam. That can be one of my commitments, too. Perfect.)

All good goals, Sam. Still not big on resolutions. But these are yours and I’m going to help you as best I can.

Sam sighed again. The duck quacked. And we headed back home.