AND THEN THERE WERE RESOLUTIONS

AND THEN THERE WERE RESOLUTIONS

Remember that feeling when you started a new exercise book in school? Ya, THAT. That is the feeling you get when you begin the new year. There is a sense of freshness in it. A feeling that everything will be neatly organised, and systematically done. And that now on it's going to be 'neighbour's envy, owners' pride.' Uff! That utterly blank notebook, just waiting to be filled with your best writing, with no red marks, scratched out answers, and circled words. This is going to be your best effort, your perfect task.

This year, you will go for a walk/do weights/jog regularly.This year, you will carelessly look away with a raised eyebrow when someone offers you that loaded with chocolate and cream pastry. This year, you will shun any short-cuts and shamming, but be a totally sincere, hardworking person. This year you will not linger over that "Candy Crush" and waste time. Instead, you will read self-enriching books. Oh this year!

The first week goes beautifully. Jalebis, begone! I have better things to eat. Samosas, why would I bother with you when I have two whole sticks of carrot, three lovely olives and a whole leaf of salad? Humph! What are these computer games in front of that wise book "Chicken Soup for the Soul?" A look of derision when asked to watch the latest Aamir blockbuster, and a virtuous, 'Sorry, my trainer awaits me at the gym.' Better things and all that.

Then comes the mind-numbing boredom as you plough through the ponderous wisdom of 'The Philosophical Musings of a Wanderer.' This, while your spouse is chortling with glee at having overtaken you on "Candy Crush", when you know you can do it quicker than them.

Your friends are enjoying that belly-enhancing beer, while you are glaring at them as you gulp down that hateful carrot juice (So good for your health).The office staff is celebrating the beginning of the Christmas break. With a chola-bhatura -coke party. Koi baat nahin, you samjhao yourself.' Mujhey mota nahin hona, cholesterol nahin badhana. '

By the time the party arrives, you are back in your devil-may-care mood. " @!$*#" the weight and cholesterol !"And that is that, as you rush home to show your spouse who's boss in the" Candy Crush" stakes.

And so the year proceeds at its merry old pace, like that exercise book, which soon shines in red ink, and illegible scrawls. We are back in business!

With that, a very happy new year to all you healers and menders. A heart-felt suggestion. Please don't make any resolutions this year. Faayda nahin :)