In flashes of sanity, I realize — and I know you do too — that the most essential moments are slower-paced, and with those we most cherish. Yet, like the remainder of our lives, they too are whooshing by too quickly and without pause.

Our minds listen “faster” than people can speak. Therefore, especially when we’re busy, we sometimes don’t take the time so slow down and really listen to what others are telling us. We respond to what we think they’re saying, not necessarily what they are really saying.

It’s easy to say resolutions don’t work and leave it at that, but the simple truth is that I got distracted by fantasies of my “New Me!” results and didn’t consider the effort and expense required by the massive changes I was taking on. When setting goals, it’s best to be realistic.

If you’re having trouble getting on the same page with someone else, it’s important to remember that the only person you control is yourself. Obviously, what you’re doing now is not getting you what you want (unless it’s a disagreement). You might as well try something else.

This year, however, she would not be sucked into his dark drama vortex. Since her divorce, she was working on accepting things as they were rather than how they “should” be. Therapy, a fitness program, and losing 33 pounds; was allowing her to reclaim her life. She would not let her boorish brother steal that away — not tonight, not again.

I don’t want a pony. I don’t need an electric train; and no offense intended, although I’ve got some beauties, I really don’t want any more ties. Here’s what I’d really like – it’s a one-size-fits-all list so you can get it for everyone.

The next morning, I raced downstairs, not knowing what to expect. I surveyed the living room. Nothing. Then the obvious became apparent: “What were you thinking? He was an eccentric geezer who cashed in his penny jar, that’s all.” I brushed aside my foolishness and started to exit when I noticed a simple envelope adorned with an embossed snowflake and a monogrammed “S.C.”

A Secret Santa went to Reading, Pennsylvania, reportedly because it was the poorest city in America, with the goal of handing out $20,000 in cash to random people in thrift stores, laundromats and bus stops who look like they could use a helping hand. Watch this video; it will uplift you – then go commit a random act of kindness.

If you’re feeling like your treading water, the problem is most likely that you’re trying to do too much; rather than not enough. Slow yourself down. Ask yourself, “What ONE thing will I do RIGHT NOW that I will complete?” Then, complete it BEFORE you move on to anything else.

If one is unhappy on the inside, no high-tech electronic, fancy outfit, or latest doo-dad will fill that void. No amount of “retail therapy” will make you whole if there is a hole within.

Reality is if my indulgences were limited just to holidays, I wouldn’t have to lose 70 pounds. Celebrations were the validation I used to reaffirm that “weight loss is too hard.” Failure sat at the head of every holiday meal table as the unwelcome guest, “Give up – start again later.”

I don’t see how anyone can say that animals don’t experience emotions nor develop close relationships after watching this video. The fact that Tara tried to rescue Bella and take her to the sanctuary, and the fact that the other elephants are sharing their food with Tara was amazing – and inspiring – to me.

What if we could make this Thanksgiving less stressful, more fun, and actually be able to enjoy ourselves, appreciate our family and friends (even the ones who drive us nuts), and focus on what we’re thankful for in a genuine way?