4 New Year’s Resolutions for New Mexicans
4 New Year’s Resolutions for New Mexicans
By Johnny Ramirez
Every New Year, we make our resolutions to make ourselves into a better person, and every February we realize that we failed. May as well grab that tub of Ben and Jerry’s and use a Netflix marathon to forget our guilt. This year, try something different. Let’s take the unique attributes our state has to offer, to help us become that better person.
Build a stronger body by taking your workout outside.
Running endless miles on a treadmill is boring, and there is always that one guy taking 20 minutes to swipe through Tindr on that one piece of equipment you need. With most parts of the state receiving well over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s almost always a good time to be outside. Trail running, hiking, or rock climbing, no matter where you are there is always something nearby you can do. Also, there’s nothing like the big blue sky and the silence of the landscape around you to really focus on pushing your body to the limit.
Forge a clearer mind by climbing a mountain.
Between work, school, family, paying bills, and just trying to make it by, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes the problems in our lives feel like they’ve become huge mountains and we can’t see a way through. It kind of makes you feel like giving up. Learn to tackle your mountain of problems by climbing a real one to its peak. It requires you to set a goal for yourself, prepare for the task at hand, and follow through with your plans. It is hard work, and there will be a point where you feel like you want to give up. Just remember, those negative thoughts you have are just self-doubt, and that you are capable of accomplishing anything you set your mind to. Push through it. There is nothing quite like the feeling you get from summiting a mountain peak after hours of hiking. Afterwards, you will look back at that mountain peak and realize that you can take on and overcome any problem that life throws your way.
Create happier relationships with people by making them homemade food.
There are many ways to connect with the people you love, from being a listening ear for their problems to helping them financially. My favorite way has always been to cook. Whether it’s a big plate of enchiladas for a party or dinner for my date, home-made food is always a hit because it tastes better than anything store-bought. They will also really remember you for making food because hardly anyone ever does that anymore. As a New Mexican, you are pretty much required to learn how to make Red Chile sauce, and it goes in everything from enchiladas, tamales, chile con carne, pozole, or even just on top of your eggs in the morning. Follow this link for a recipe:
Connect to something greater than yourself by making a pilgrimage.
Whether you are religious or not, we all have a deep-seated need to wonder about our place in the grand scheme of the universe. Luckily, our state has some pretty amazing places to do so.
For the Naturist, the beauty of life manifests itself in the plants, animals, and landscapes of New Mexico. From the beautiful desolation of White Sands to the life abundant forests of the Valles Caldera, the state has many unique places where one can tune in with nature.
For the Scientist, the Very Large Array located west of Socorro is our modern day Stonehenge. With 27 radio antennas 25 meters in diameter, spread out across miles of vast open plains. It is here that we as a human species are listening to and uncovering the secrets of stars and galaxies. Sit beneath the behemoths and contemplate your place in an infinite universe.
For the Religious, The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Santa Fe is a beautiful 130-year-old church located in a city that is over 400 years old. Its intricate beauty surrounds you and places you deep within the current of the Catholic tradition. Visit it, and connect with a faith shared by a billion people around the world.
A strong body, a clear mind, a devotion to others, and spiritual connection.
These are the four obligations. It is one of the many meanings of the Zia sun symbol that adorns our state flag. The four obligations are an important part of Zia culture and is used to help each individual fulfil their potential. As a citizen of New Mexico, you have inherited a bit of that culture. Use it to make yourself the best you, you can be.
