As I look forward to 2008, and consider what resolutions I should perhaps make, I realise that Samuel Johnson said it all before, and that I can do no better than follow him:
Not to marry a young Woman.
Not to keep young company, unless they really desire it.
Not to be peevish, or morose, or suspicious.
Not to scorn present Ways, or Wits, or Fashions, or Men, or War, &c.
Not to be fond of children.
Not to tell the same Story over and over to the same People.
Not to be covetous.
Not to neglect decency, or cleanliness, for fear of falling into Nastiness.
Not to be oversevere with young People, but give allowances for their youthful follys and weaknesses.
Not to be influenced by or give ear to knavish tattling servants, or others.
Not to be too free of advice, nor trouble any but those that desire it.
To desire some good Friends to inform me which of these Resolutions I break, or neglect, & wherein; and reform accordingly.
Enough said: George Wilkinson's blog 