VOL. XXII, NO. 5
DECEMBER 19, 1980

Student Sets New Resolution With Lots of Determination
BY JOANNE STINE

Many people have a certain tradition that they carry out every year, and nobody seems to note the significance of this tradition. This tradition is the naming of a New Year's resolution. Now many people don't know the purpose or the meaning of the New Year's resolution, so I will explain.

I will take apart the word resolution to make this easier to understand. Resolute is an adjective meaning marked by firm determination. So, quite simply, resolution is an extension of that word. Therefore, resolution is the act of determining. Now that's not hard, is it? So, that in itself explains what a New Year's resolution is. A New Year's resolution is something you are determined to do. Or, possibly, a New Year's resolution is something you are determined not to do. Whatever the case, you are determined.

Some people think New Year's re-solutions are for fun, while others are firm believers in the sacred act of resoluting. Some people ask, what is the point of making a resolution? Well, for one, you could kick the habit. I don't really know		 what habit that may be: but if a bad habit needs to be broken, then be determined to break it. There is that funny little word again. I think you're getting the hang of it; I know I am. Others will swear to stop kicking their little brothers down the stairs when they listen in on their telephone conversations.

Let's get off the subject of bad habits and look at other ways of resolving our problems. You could make a New Year's resolution that every little old lady you see walking across the street will be helped by you. Now that's nice and generous, but it could get to be a drag. Believe me, I know how money-hungry kids are nowadays. Maybe you might promise your parents that you'll get a job in 1981 or that you'll stop coming in at four in the morning and giggling when you trip over the dog.

Those are all nice resolutions. I, myself, am promising to gain at least 40 pounds this coming year. It may never happen, but I'll try because I am determined. Remember, folks, determination is the key to a successful New Year's resolution. Whatever yours may be, I wish you good luck and a Happy New Year.