“An intelligent guilt can be a stimulus and a guide.”

^{January 17, 1965}

As 1965 began, Rabbi Olan contemplated the meaning and relevance of New Year resolutions. Are they useless exercises or helpful aspirations? In general, Olan seemed skeptical about the usual experience of setting and not keeping the resolutions that we make. However, new beginnings naturally becon us to consider setting goals for improving ourselves and our world. For those who are apt to make New Year resolutions, Olan recommended the adoption of this one universal quest: “Let us resolve to be more of what we say we are.” What a simple, yet powerful, concept! If we were to start making our words and actions match our self-understanding and public image (what we claim to be), untold positive changes could emerge.

To read or hear Rabbi Olan’s entire message, activate the links below.

*Written by Tim Binkley.*