By Rev. Leo Booth

I suppose when we say ‘New Year’ we really mean that 2009 is over and we are beginning 2010. Is that it? Could there be anything else that makes the New Year new?

For those of us who are in recovery, the idea of new-ness is constantly evolving because we are forever learning and discovering new and exciting things about ourselves and the program. The fact that a new year is actually happening encourages us to (a) go to the gym (b) begin the foodplan (c) decide to attend more meetings (d) affirm our openness to a relationship. It’s called a New Year’s resolution.

I rather like the idea of having New Year resolutions; it’s just that I’m not very good at keeping them. I’m the kind of person who buys the shorts and running shoes, extravagantly shows the purchases to everyone, then doesn’t run! The intention was good; however the follow through…awful.

That’s me.

However, I’m looking forward to 2010 because I intend to live my professional life differently. Oh yes, I’ll still be going to conferences, churches, and consulting at treatment centers but I’m going to make myself available to do spiritual weddings, blessings of a significant relationship and funerals for the spiritual seekers.

If you are reading this recovery newspaper you know that many people do not attend church or synagogue regularly, indeed some have left religion and are embracing a variety of spiritual paths. This is great as I’ve done much the same, moving from Episcopalian to the metaphysical Unity church. And yet nonreligious people, the spiritual seekers, still want to celebrate a marriage, significant relationship or express their respect for the dead. I intend to bridge this need by providing spiritual services and ceremonies.

I also intend in 2010 to get out of the publishing business. I’ve done it for twenty years and now look forward to other publishers marketing my books on spirituality, healing relationships and recovery.

Therefore I’m clearing the shelf space and having a major clearance sale for some of my most popular books. Let me express myself clearly: The Wisdom of Letting Go that normally sells for $15.00 is now $6.00. Spirituality and Recovery is also $6.00. For more information call my office and speak with Michael.

I’ve already spoken about spiritual seekers. They are people, like me, who not only want to think outside of the box but also want to experience new and exciting sacred places. In September 2010 I shall be taking a group to Egypt: this will include visiting the beautiful Temple of Philae in Aswan; the pyramids of Giza and Cheops in Cairo; the spectacular Valley of Kings in Luxor; also a three day Nile cruise. I’m already excited because this will be a new experience for me.

The beginning of a New Year is a time many take stock of where they are going in their lives, what they need to focus on… oh yes, and what needs to change. And it is all good. Remember, we were created to create.

Let’s make 2010 a great year, regardless of the economy!

Reprinted with permission from California Together Newspaper.