This year, I have taken the initiative to set some resolutions, a practice I previously deemed beneath me. However, this year has been one of enlightenment and humility, where I’ve acknowledged my shortcomings as a parent and an individual.
Recognizing that enhancing my mental well-being is key to excelling in both roles, I have reignited my running routine and incorporated vitamin supplements to boost my cognitive abilities and energy levels. These supplements have proven effective, transforming tangible health improvements into gleaming placebo pills that illuminate my urine to a glowing hue in the darkness.
One area of improvement I aim to focus on is reducing my frequency of swearing, as investigations into my son’s colorful language have pinpointed me as the primary influence. Despite not viewing myself as particularly profane, I’ve come to realize that every oath I utter leaves a lasting impression on my son’s impressionable mind.
It is unforgivable that I hadn’t grasped this earlier, especially considering my disdain for witnessing other parents casually swearing in front of their children. I had naively perceived my own swearing as endearing, akin to a charming character in a whimsical film, while condemning others’ profanity as distasteful, resembling antagonistic figures in a cinematic narrative.
This realization serves as a microcosm of the broader biases I aim to rectify this year. For example, I can’t help but silently scold parents who are too busy staring at their phones to pay attention to their kids in the park, even though I’m guilty of doing the same thing sometimes.
My resolution for 2024 includes being more present in my son’s school engagements, shifting my focus from inundating school WhatsApp groups with queries like “Is today a costume day?” to actively engaging in meaningful ways. I commit to investing more time in genuine interactions rather than resorting to digital distractions.
Above all, I pledge to cultivate gratitude for life’s blessings, big and small. I am grateful for my children’s well-being, the beauty of the world surrounding us, and the supportive community we are fortunate to have. With newfound appreciation and the added convenience of luminous urine eliminating the need for a midnight bathroom light, I am truly blessed.