At this time of year ought we to be skeptical of the new behaviors we see in others? Was it my imagination or did the energetic jogger I noticed on the street the other day look down a bit sheepishly? Did he realize what I was thinking, that I was wondering whether he’ll be running this time next month?

And to use myself as an example, will the perennial “don’t worry, be happy” resolution prompt people to think “Hmmmm …. she sure seems cheerful … there’s a whiff of a resolution about her?” Probably not, of course. People aren’t thinking about much other than their own concerns, understandably.

If resolutions are even made anymore, then this time of year ought to witness some of the kindest and gentlest of interactions, both in person and in traffic. With the exception of the dieters, of course. They are allowed to be cranky.

For us resolution-makers whose earnest attempts invite knowing smiles or arched eyebrows, let’s just plow on. Yes, there may be whiff of a resolution about us … but that’s just the aroma of change.