Well, it is a new year, which means new resolutions. I don't know how long these will last, but here's a list of the things I'd like to improve on, along with their difficulty rating (one star being the easiest):

I resolve to:

1. Be more patient. Especially with stupid people. Darg, I hate stupid people. But I will be better this year. I will try not to use sarcasm as a way to handle stupid people. And I will try not to let their stupidity get to me or get me down. Instead, I will realize that everyone, no matter how stupid, has a reason for being. ****

2. Go back to church. Every year, I toy with the idea of going back to church, and every year I remember why I don't: I don't agree with much of what the Catholic religion believes in. For one, I believe women should be allowed into the priesthood. Also, I don't agree that priests should remain celibate and single. And I disagree with their non-acceptance of gays (though, to be fair, that's pretty much the same in any established religion). But then I thought, why do I have to go to a Catholic church? There are other, more liberal, Christian denominations. After some research, I decided to give a local Episcopal church a try. I went yesterday, and it was nice. Much of the mass was just like Catholic mass, so I didn't feel too out-of-place. And the rector was nice and introduced me to everyone at mass. Plus, the church is very active in the community, especially through a nonprofit foundation that helps the homeless and developmentally disabled in the area. This one should be easy to keep. *

3. Get a boyfriend. Hah, easier said than done, but this year, I will at least try. I will become active in community groups again, and will meet new people, and, bladder be damned, I will not have to "go to the bathroom" the next time a cute guy tries to talk with me! No more! *****

4. Get fit. Yes, it's the old standby, the one everyone mentions. Doesn't mean I can't use it, though, right? ***

Now, let's see how many of those are still in play in a month or so...