New Year's resolutions come in two kinds. Some resolve to sweep away the practices and habits of a prior way of life to produce a fresh start, a blank foundation on which to build a new and freer self. Others resolve to stay a given course, renewing an older dedication to do much as had been done before, but with greater deliberation and reinvigorated intention, seeking independence from what has hampered the effort. To make a joke, perhaps history and assonance allow us to call the first a French resolution, and the second American. Of course, many Americans are inclined to the former view of things.
But for the resolutionary reader of the religious and latter inclination, last summer's Building the Benedict Option: A Guide to Gathering Two or Three Together in His Name, by Catholic writer Leah Libresco, is a welcome encouragement. Sometimes a little push and a prayer is all you need to do better.
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