by Tao Oliveto, Carrboro, NC

Like everyone else over the past two days, I’ve been thinking (a lot) about the new year and our so-called “resolutions”. And in the process, I realized that resolutions are actually Re-solutions. This should be obvious. The history of the world involves confronting problems and finding solutions. But our solutions for comfortable ways to eat, work, live and get around have grown out of proportion and perspective - and with it, so have our lives. Becoming distracted by desires and indulgence, our modern-day solutions are now killing us and the planet (and making many of us unhappy). We need Re-solutions. Fortunately, there are smart people busily forming these new ideas. The only thing left is for all of us to see the truth and do the work.

So, it was one of my Re-solutions last year to create a socially and sustainably-minded blog that would share the logic and excitement of these new ideas for our world. I made a promise, last New Year’s Day, to reveal the unpopular truths, but to do so in a positive, Re-solution-oriented way - one filled with news, information and hopeful thoughts about the future. In the process, I have met many people on the same path and learned a lot.

I learned how to live with less A/C. I learned to improve the gas mileage in my car by filling the tires with nitrogen. I learned that hybrid cars are good, but driving less is better. I learned how to eat and drink almost entirely eco-friendly and local. I learned that a 26-second shower gets me just as clean as a 2-minute one. I learned how to make my own toothpaste. I learned that commuting by bicycle is smart and fun. I learned that what is good for the environment is good for the soul. I learned where to recycle more and waste less and then I learned how to recycle more and waste less all over again. I also learned that there are a lot of amazing people out there who share my hopes and are willing to embrace change.

My hope for everyone for 2008, is the openness and courage to listen, learn and share new ideas - everyday. To keep growing and manifesting our intentions for a more healthy, happy and sustainable future. To resolve to Re-solve.

Let’s ring in the New Year~