In 2008, I resolved to not leave my really long papers to the last minute. 

In 2009, I resolved to randomly dance more often.
 

I kept both of these resolutions and welcomed less stress in 2008 and more enjoyment in 2009. I was happier, but what was the bigger effect? Who else benefited? Well… no one.
 

This year I want my resolutions to be a little different. In 2010, I’m going to resolve to change my world.
 

Sometimes, “my world” consists of the three other people living in my home. Other times, “my world” consists of everyone on my facebook. Other times still, “my world” is the 1300 students on my Midwestern college campus… my fellow Hoosiers… my fellow Americans… everyone living on this earth.
 

You see, changing the world doesn’t have to affect each one of the billions of people on the earth. Change the life of one, and you’ve changed it all. Feed one person, cloth one man, counselor one child, give to one other human being, and you’ve done it. You’ve changed your world, you’ve changed his or her world… and you’ve changed our world.
 

In 2010, I resolve to open my heart to others and put forth the effort to make this world a better place for us all to live.
 

There is absolutely merit in sponsoring a child or donating to save polar bears, but don't forget to look around your own neighborhood. In these times of economic downturn, small, community-run organizations are hit the hardest. Local schools can’t pay tutors- volunteer. Local food pantries can’t feed everyone they want to- collect cans. Local parents can’t afford after school care- donate time.

Changing the world doesn't have to be hugely expensive or terrifically grand. It can be simple, it can even be free. Smile more. Give more yourself, not necessarily of your money; give freely of your time. Money can do great and wonderful things, but it isn't a person. It can rebuild the house lost in the fire, but it can't comfort survivors. It can pay for a funeral, but it can't replace a fallen soldier. It can support a child, but it can't read a bedtime story. Money is important in our world, but it is not the only way to give, and it is not always the best way to give. 
 

Your world and my world make up a bigger world, one we are all part of. Each smaller part of the world is just as vital to the big picture as each brushstroke is vital to a painting. When you change the life of just one person, you are changing the world. You are making this world, our world, a better, happier place to live in.
 

So, go ahead. Resolve to lose those five pounds or to randomly dance more often. But don’t forget the new year is a time to change more than just yourself. This year, resolve to change the world, even if the world you change is just the life of one person. 

Best of luck in the new year to all of you; I hope you all enter 2010 with open hearts and hands ready to give whatever you are able and to receive happiness and good health.