My Resolutions

My Resolutions

As I reflect on the lessons I’ve learned and the wisdom that guides me, I’ve compiled a list of resolutions that I strive to live by. These principles serve as reminders for personal growth, kindness, and a deeper connection to both myself and others:

1. Don’t Gossip
   “When we gossip, we are doing what Judas did. We begin to tear the other person apart. Every time we judge someone in our hearts or, worse, speak badly of them with others, we are harming them. There is no such thing as innocent slander.” — Pope Francis

2. Finish Your Meal
   “Throwing food away is like stealing from the tables of the poor. I encourage everyone to reflect on the issue of wasted food and find ways to address it, creating opportunities for solidarity and sharing with the needy.” — Pope Francis

3. Make Time for Others
   “If the Pope can find time to be kind to others, to pause and say thank you, to make someone feel appreciated, then so can I. So can we.” — Fr. James Martin

4. Choose the Humble Purchase
   “Possessions, money, and power can give a fleeting sense of happiness, but they end up controlling us, making us always want more, never satisfied. Place your trust in Christ, and you will never be disappointed.”

5. Meet the Poor 'In the Flesh'
   “Hospitality alone is not enough. It’s not enough to give a sandwich if it isn't accompanied by the possibility of empowering someone to stand on their own. Charity that doesn’t change the situation of the poor isn’t enough.” — Pope Francis

6. Stop Judging Others
   “If someone is gay and seeks the Lord with good will, who am I to judge? Let us remember that hatred, envy, and pride defile our lives.” — Pope Francis

7. Befriend Those Who Disagree
   “Dialogue, dialogue, dialogue. It is the only way for individuals, families, and societies to grow. It is the only way for the life of people to progress. Everyone has something good to offer, if we approach them with openness and without prejudice.” — Pope Francis

8. Make Commitments, Such as Marriage
   “I ask you to be revolutionaries, to swim against the tide; yes, I am asking you to rebel against this culture that sees everything as temporary and believes that you are incapable of responsibility or true love. I have confidence in you and I pray for you. Have the courage to be happy.” — Pope Francis

9. Make It a Habit to 'Ask the Lord'
   “Dear young people, some of you may not yet know what you will do with your lives. Ask the Lord, and He will show you the way. The young Samuel heard the Lord calling him, but didn’t understand. With the help of Eli, he answered, ‘Speak, Lord, for I am listening.’ Ask the Lord: What do you want me to do?” — Pope Francis

10. Be Happy
    “Joy cannot be held at heel; it must be set free. Joy is a pilgrim virtue, a gift that walks alongside us, walks with Jesus, preaching and proclaiming joy. It stretches and widens the path.” — Pope Francis