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The Slice: Grading resolution follow-through
One of my goals for 2017 is to be more accountable to readers.
I let a number of things slip through the cracks this year. I hope to do better.
But there’s no need to wait until January. I can start right now.
Here are a few New Year’s resolutions I listed in The Slice on this date way back in 2000. They were offered for readers’ possible use. But, looking back, let’s see what grades I would award myself for my own follow-through.
I will try to remember that some people weren’t lucky enough to have good parents. (D)
When in grocery stores, I will occasionally check to see if my shopping cart is blocking the aisle. (A)
I will make a point of praising people who exceed my expectations. (C+)
I will have compassion for those who cannot stop talking. (F)
I will choose role models carefully. (B)
I will never offer “That’s how we’ve always done it” as an explanation. (B-)
I will help friends and family members improve by noting when they are being annoying. (D)
I will be confident when pronouncing pretentious words. (D)
I will help the customer standing before me and put the caller on hold. (NA)
I will try to remember that some people do the things they do because they are insecure. (B-)
As a gift to my co-workers, I will cease singing the theme song from the old “Daniel Boone” TV show. (A)
I will have my checkbook out. (NA, I usually pay with cash.)
Every once in a while, I’ll stop and ask myself, “Am I being an incredible phony right now?” (C-)
I will not hog the remote. (D+)
I will learn. (C)
I’ll consider the possibility that someone might have had what he considered legitimate reasons for purchasing the road pig he drives. (D)
I will identify and analyze the forces shaping my worldview. (C-)
I will try to remember that popular culture did not freeze in place the year I was a high school junior. (F-)
I will try to think of other words to express frustration. (D+)
I will appear to listen. (A-)
I will save scorn for worthy targets. (C)
I will make sure my co-workers know I distinguish between those who talk about doing the work and those who actually do the work. (NA, they all work hard.)
When necessary, I will rise above it. (C-)
Today’s Slice question: Who would you name Inland Northwest Person of the Year?
Write The Slice at P.O. Box 2160, Spokane, WA 99210; call (509) 459-5470; email pault@spokesman.com. You can add “in jail” to almost any sentence.