Resolutions-- or NOT!

Funny word.  Sounds like REVOLUTION (and may even cause inner, personal ones sometimes) but is truly an unrelated word, except in its pattern of derivation from verb to noun.  Both words seem to trip over some linguistic root and end up with a random euphemic change: REVOLT/ REVOLVE--REVOLUTION; (so, do revolutionists turn constantly in circles?) RESOLVE--RESOLUTION.  According to ordinary phonics patterns, the word logically should become resolve+tion=resolv(drop the "e")tion/sion-- RESOLVSION, but our tongues have problems doing that, so, hey--let's use that "u" and "v" interchangeable thing, and voila; we have RESOLUTION, much easier to say.  Only now, we've added an extra syllable, and discreetly disguised from whence it derived--so that one needs to have more experience with language than they otherwise should in order to recognize that the words are related.  (So, which language group does the interchangeable "u" and "v" come from?)  If we apply back-formation for the noun RESOLUTION, logical choices for the original verb become RESULT or RESOLUTE--both very useful words, and even thematically applicable: we do, after all, wish for results from our resolutions and often become resolute (for awhile, anyway) in keeping them.  But, resolute is an adjective, not a verb--although it does stem from the same original Latin root, and result, of course, remains a noun, and seems to have no connection.   And, now that we've got that sorted out, how is the resolution of your photos when you go to print them from the computer related to New Years?  Or those resolutions that get voted on to become laws--are they someone's New Year's resolutions on steroids?  How confusing (and thrilling!) language is.  Don't you think?

That said, do you have a habit of using the change of the calendar as a motivational chance to help you make a positive change in your life, or habits, or goal-setting?  If it works for you--I say, resolutely march on, my friends!  Ignore the cynics and naysayers who may mock you for your naivete or idealism, and proudly strive toward a better you in whatever way works.  If New Year's Resolutions are ideas having only grazed your consciousness back in your elementary school days when prim and intimidating, but smiley and encouraging, Mrs. Teacher sunnily introduced it as the writing assignment for the first day back after Christmas break, and your sugar-dazed, sleep-deprived consciousness tried its best to ignore it then, so you've made a habit of ignoring it every year since; then I say, hey--you've grown up now, maturity has outgrown over-indulgence of Christmas sweets, and under-indulgence of ample slumber, so maybe, this is the year.  Give it a try.  Strive for a better you, and resolve to make a change or accomplish a goal. Couldn't hurt--much.

Now that you've been etymologically edified and sardonically motivated, enjoy this variety of random New Year's Resolution lists I've come up with:

5 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS I MAY HAVE MADE--sometime in the past

1.  I will not procrastinate.
2.  I will become a published author before the end of the year.
3.  I will write letters to my family and friends more often.
4.  I will have a girlfriend this year.
5.  I will stop "just getting by" and get the grades I know I can get.

7 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS I HAVE NEVER MADE--nor likely ever will make

1.  I will eat less chocolate this year.
2.  I will take up running for my health.
3.  I will wear a tie to work more often.
4.  I won't spend money on travel this year.
5.  I will stop being a "snoopy father." 
6.  I won't allow myself to become emotionally connected to my students.
7.  I will go shopping more often--just for fun.  

4 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS I'D HAVE NO PROBLEM KEEPING--but have never made

1.  I will soak in a hot springs at least 5 times this year.
2.  I will let everyone know how brilliant and creative my kids are.
3.  I will keep my mind healthy by playing card games and doing word puzzles.
4.  I will embrace ethnic diversity by eating international cuisine as often as I can.

3 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS (each) MY FAMILY WOULD LIKELY NEVER MAKE

   the Princess:

1. I will wear monochromatic outfits in matching, subdued colors, and NO hats.
2. I will refrain from referencing any favorite movies, novels, plays, TV shows, or songs in my daily interaction with those around me.
3. I will be sure to make it to bed by midnight, no matter what I want to or have to do. 

 the Boy:

1. I will refrain from using my computer for at least two hours of my awake time each day.
2. I will launder, fold, and put away my clothes as often as (Dad deems) necessary.
3. I will be sure to make it to bed by midnight, no matter what I want to or have to do.

the Bride:

1. I will check out and read only one book at a time from the library every week.
2. I will only bake cookies, or scones, or brownies, on special occasions.  
3. I will not sing along with the radio or CD's when I drive in the car.

 6 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS I SHOULD MAKE THIS YEAR--but probably won't

1. I will make use of my new snowshoes this winter, and our (not so new) canoe this summer.
2. I will finish (after several years) re-making the flower gardens in the front of the house.
3. I will commit to spending "just the right amount of time" writing on my blog and various other creative pieces
4. I will sort through the heaps of "stuff" strategically stored in the house, and get rid of what we  really don't need, and neatly organize the rest.
5. I will be sure to make it to bed by midnight, no matter what I want to or have to do.
6. I will not procrastinate.

 But, no matter how you choose to commemorate or celebrate or calculate it, we are resolute in wishing you a New Year effervescing with energy, entertainment, edification, and enjoyment!