The President's Message 12/30/24

“The object of a New Year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul and a new nose; new feet, a new backbone, new ears, and new eyes. Unless a particular man made New Year resolutions, he would make no resolutions. Unless a man starts afresh about things, he will certainly do nothing effective.” –GK Chesterton

As we approach the New Year, many of us are filled with excitement and hope for fresh beginnings, new opportunities, and the promise of change. The symbolic turning of the calendar offers a sense of renewal, a clean slate to start over. But as G.K. Chesterton so wisely points out, the object of a New Year is not just to mark the passing of time. It’s not simply about welcoming another set of months; it’s about embracing the opportunity for personal transformation. To truly make the most of this fresh start, we need more than just new resolutions—we need new eyes, ears, a new backbone, and, perhaps most importantly, a new soul.

The New Year offers us an opportunity to approach life differently, to see the world through fresh eyes and hear its lessons with new ears. Each year brings with it challenges and triumphs, the good and the bad, and setting a resolution to experience it all—rather than avoiding or fearing the difficult moments—helps to build character.

Resolutions aren’t just about achieving goals, they’re about reshaping how we interact with the world, how we approach setbacks, and how we celebrate victories. It’s in the process of embracing both the joys and hardships of life that we grow, develop resilience, and discover who we really are.

Chesterton’s call for a “new backbone” reminds us that strength of character is built not by dodging challenges but by facing them head-on. Every new year will bring its fair share of obstacles—difficult relationships, personal disappointments, or unexpected setbacks. But instead of viewing these moments as failures, we can choose to see them as opportunities to strengthen our resolve, to stand taller, and to persevere. The New Year isn’t a promise of smooth sailing; it’s an invitation to navigate the storm with greater courage and purpose.

At the same time, the “new eyes” and “new ears” that Chesterton speaks of are just as essential. They symbolize our openness to change, our willingness to see things from a new perspective, and our readiness to listen to the lessons life is constantly offering us. Sometimes, the most valuable insights come not from our own plans and resolutions, but from the unexpected twists and turns life throws our way. By keeping an open mind and heart, we allow ourselves to grow in ways we never anticipated, gaining wisdom and perspective that can’t be found on a checklist of goals.

Ultimately, the New Year offers a chance to start afresh, not just in terms of new projects or ambitions, but in how we approach life itself. It’s a reminder that personal growth doesn’t come solely from external achievements but from internal transformation. Setting a resolution to embrace the year ahead, with all its ups and downs, helps us to build character and resilience. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, to be open to learning, and to welcome the unknown.

Just as Chesterton speaks of needing a "new soul," we must recognize that real transformation starts from within. The New Year isn’t just about surface-level changes or setting lofty goals—it’s an opportunity to take an honest look at our inner lives, to reflect on the state of our hearts, and, where necessary, to seek repentance. Repentance isn't simply feeling remorse for past mistakes; it’s a deep, purposeful decision to turn away from harmful behaviors, toxic thoughts, or negative habits. It’s about realigning ourselves with our values, clearing out what weighs us down, and creating space for spiritual growth. Only when we commit to this inner work can we truly experience the renewal and fresh start that the New Year promises.

A "new soul" means being open to change, forgiving ourselves and others, and allowing healing to take place. This heart work is critical, for it sets the tone for how we approach everything else. Just as a tree must be rooted in healthy soil to flourish, we must nurture our inner lives with reflection, honesty, and grace. Starting the year with a renewed soul helps us approach every challenge and opportunity with a clearer, more compassionate heart, ultimately making us more resilient and grounded in the year ahead.

So, as we prepare to welcome the New Year, let’s resolve not just to change what we do but to change how we see, listen, and respond. Let’s commit to being present for everything life has to offer—both the good and the bad—and to using every experience as a stepping stone to becoming the best version of ourselves. With a new soul, a new backbone, and a new perspective, we can make the coming year one of true growth and transformation.