Mark’s Musings – January 02, 2013

Mark Fortune

Turning the calendar to a new page – or year in this case – is usually something I enjoy. I look forward with anticipation to what a New Year can deliver. 2012 seemed to be a year filled with lots of promise – and promises – and in a lot of cases failed to deliver. And no, I am not talking about politics. We all know that the messages delivered during an election year typically fail to come to fruition. As we move headlong into 2013, our nation is reeling from the tragedy in Connecticut, a sad testament to the predicament that we face.

Pro athletes continue to take out their frustration and anger on their wives and girlfriends, often with tragic results. Some would say, “What do you expect”? This will, unfortunately, continue. I know we all want to wish for the best as a New Year approaches, and let’s do that. But I also think that a healthy dose of reality is sometimes needed like a cold snowball hitting us full on in the face. That’s reality.

2013 will bring triumph, tragedy, happiness, sadness, laughter and tears; the full range of human emotions. Just like in all years. That does not mean that we bury our head under the covers. Quite the opposite. Face the day with a smile on your face. Get out there and make something happen. Contribute to our community. Do something for someone else. That alone would make our world a better place.

Just imagine what all of these overpaid (yes, they are) pro athletes could do if someone – perhaps even one of them – developed an organization that made it their mission to help improve downtrodden neighborhoods in our nation’s largest cities. I’m talking about something significant, something that sticks, besides giving away a few basketballs. Figure out how to reduce the unemployment, lower the dropout rate and crime statistics will decrease. And while well intentioned, the government is failing at these measures. Grassroots efforts typically have more impact and staying power.

Now, it is highly possible that just such an organization already does exist, or exists in some form. Regardless, 2013 provides yet another opportunity to make a difference, take a stand, don’t text and drive, wash your hands more often to avoid sickness, become more – or less – dependent on technology, take care of your neighbor, friend or family member. Perhaps most important, share, get involved, learn, love and help others. We can all do our part to help make our world a little bit better by simply helping others. One day at a time in 2013.

Category: Mark's Musings