The first day of a new year, this one with 366 days. A bonus day for a bonus year. The bonus day is because we have a Leap Year, but the bonus year? 

The idea is this: If I think of it as a bonus, I’ll appreciate it more. I’m not ancient, but I’m old enough that this idea resonates. Even if I wasn’t, the bonus concept makes sense. 

I’m just finishing The Book of Joy, a compilation of interviews between the Dalai Lama and the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu. One of the recommended “joy practices” is to make time each morning to set an intention for the day. 

Today’s intention is to appreciate this new year as it’s dawning, and to live this new year as if it is a gift. Because it is.