Life of a working mom: New Year’s is a time to reflect on what’s important in life

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“Every man’s life is important because it touches so many other lives.”

That’s the concept of my favorite movie of all time, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It’s the story of how George Bailey always put the needs of others before his own and always stood up for what was right. He even had the courage to stand up to Mr. Potter, the richest and meanest man in Bedford Falls.

This movie had a huge influence on me as a young girl. It always has been my goal to be like George Bailey. I have shaken the hand of “Mr. Potter” a few times in my life. I know what it’s like when you are offered the world in exchange for your soul.

But I have fought hard, I have kept my soul, and I am living a wonderful life. I may not have money, but I feel rich. I’m blessed with amazing family members, friends and a supportive community.

New Year’s is the perfect time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. Take the time to look at your successes and failures, both at home and at work. Then set some goals for yourself. Find that person you want to emulate and try harder this year to be that person.

It’s never too late to improve yourself. You can start at 18 or 80. I believe even Mr. Potter could change.

When I look back on the past year, I reflect on how much has happened. My baby boy, Joey, changed so much, from crawling to walking and now talking. My joy in life is seeing him happy and healthy.

When I look at work, I celebrate the success of my crew, who won two Emmys for their work, as they continue to serve the Northland.

Looking back, 2009 was a good year. But I still am not where I want to be. I want to work even harder to be good to people, kind, patient and do more to serve my community.

For my son; I want to work hard to be the best mommy I can. I know I can do better and I will continue to try.

It’s a fresh new year, full of hope, wonder and excitement. We all make resolutions, which usually are broken by Jan. 3. But I think if we make a goal to be more like George Bailey and less like Mr. Potter, the world would be a better place.

I’m a strong believer that every single person can make a difference in this world. You just have to believe in yourself and do it, even if no one else has ever believed in you.

You can change, and you can start today. So do it. Make this year, 2010, the best one yet. I’ll leave you with one of my favorite New Year’s quotes: “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”

This is your chance. Get it right and start today.

Julie Moravchik is news director at KQDS-TV, FOX 21. You can reach her at jmoravchik@kqdsfox21.tv or post a comment to her column on the Scrapbook page of duluthnewstribune.com. You can write to her at 2001 London Road, Duluth, MN 55812-2126.

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