What does that phrase REALLY mean nowadays? When people post about the "new them," they're usually talking about going to the gym or getting a haircut. What do these posts have in common? Most people are talking about a PHYSICAL change.

Why? We've become obsessed with the idea that the way we look can determine what happens in our lives. I propose that we try to change the way we think, rather than the way we look. Instead of getting the fancy clothes and perfect body, how about we help a homeless person, become friends with new people, spread love and kindness, rather than materialism and idealistic views.

I know I sound semi-crazy, because what I am proposing sounds slightly idealistic. Unfortunately, we don't live in a perfect world. But that's my job as a writer here, this is my forum. I try to change minds for the better and try to show people a different perspective on things. I am not saying that everyone has to conform and think the way I do. However, I am hoping enough people will read this and think, " you know what, this chick is making sense. Let's make a change."

2016 has been one hell of a year, if you ask me. We've struggled with so many things this year. We've had to deal with hate crimes, a Presidential election (which probably caused the largest uproar), police brutality/crimes against the police, the Black Lives Matter movement... the list goes on. 2016 became a year all about hate and different ways it could be spread. We learned to hate our neighbors rather than embrace them. We were taught that mean is right and instilling fear is the only way to get things done.

2017 should be just the opposite of 2016. Quite honestly, we all need to get over ourselves, myself included. Not one individual is better than the next. Not one of us matters more than the other. We are all equal. We are all one. We should spend the next year shaping our minds, not our bodies. We should spend the next year caring about one another and coming together as a whole. Instead of making your appearance better, make your perspectives and morals better.

"New me" How about, NEW US, NEW NATION, NEW MORALS, NEW YOU.