Oh, 2020, what a year you’ve been. We are relieved to see your days numbered and welcome the promise of 2021.
The past 10 months especially opened our eyes to new revelations about ourselves and our communities, for better and sometimes for worse. Many of us learned we’re more resourceful than we think, that we all have something to contribute. Some days taught us we have to surrender with grace when nothing works out as we thought it would. Many had to learn quickly how to become a “substitute teacher” or to adapt to “working from home.” We may have been at our clumsy best at first, but like to think we improved with practice.
Most of us gained new awareness of how important health care workers, delivery staff, grocery store associates and other essential personnel are to our everyday existence. Most of them kept reporting to their jobs. Hopefully we realized how much we need to support locally-owned small businesses and restaurants. They rely on us.
The year 2020 meant that some of us touched hands with loved ones through a nursing home glass window. Some of us lost loved ones. Many developed closer bonds with immediate family. And somehow, we tried to keep putting one foot in front of the other so we could get to this point.
The dawn of a new year gives us a chance to envision improved health and happiness ahead. We asked a few area residents to share some of their wishes for 2021. It should be understood that each one first wants to see an end to the coronavirus as soon as possible.
The year 2020 has taught us more about ourselves. With luck, the best of those lessons will stick.
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“The first thing that comes to mind for me is unity. After an election year that coincided with racial tension and reconciliation, my wish is that people from all walks of life will come together as one to show love to each other and to lend a helping hand to those in need. Also, that we find purpose in life and reflect on what truly matters.
Lastly, I hope that 2021 reunites families with their loved ones. Cheers to a prosperous and healthy year! God bless!”
Lateshia Harris Butler, Starkville
Compliance specialist, Office of Compliance and Risk Management, Miss. State University
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“My New Year’s wish is for a less hectic year with politics, pandemics and overall less hostility in the world with everything.
I’m ready for everything to get back to normal and for us to start having 4-H and adult educational programs on a normal basis. And since I work in the agriculture field here in Lowndes County, one of my other New Year’s wishes is for the farmers to have a good growing season, with good weather and higher prices than previous years.”
Reid Nevins, Hamilton
Extension Agent III, Lowndes County
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“Some of my wishes for the new year are that I hope to stay healthy and active. And I wish for an early spring with some warm sunny days to ride my horse. I wish for all my animals to stay healthy. And I wish happiness, health and prosperity for my family and friends.
I’d love for all animals in shelters and on streets to find a good, safe home — and for our society to get a grip on spaying and neutering.”
Madalene McIlwain, Starkville
Retired
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“Being involved with several nonprofit organizations, I hope that the United Way of North Central Mississippi, Contact Helpline and others will receive a windfall of financial support from donors and grants. These organizations seek to help so many people in our community. I truly believe that we rise by lifting others.
I would also like to see more companies and retail businesses move into the Golden Triangle area. We need more leisure/recreation options, too.
Earlier this year, I decided to launch a career management consulting business. My goal is to have my business in full operation by the end of 2021.
Virtual learning has been an adventure for my family. I would like to see my children return to a somewhat normal school routine by the fall.
My final wish is for MSU to win the egg and keep the egg for five years. Hail State!
Adrienne Morris, Columbus
Human Resources director, Aramark, Starkville
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“Sometimes, life is hard. We didn’t need 2020 to show us that. But whoever said it was going to be easy? Sometimes we let things get in the way of a life of fulfillment — usually pride, greed and self-indulgent acts.
How do we reach fulfillment when things get tough? Make it simple. Strong, vibrant communities are built upon healthy relationships, and those are built upon the Golden Rule, treating others as you want to be treated. Honesty, compassion, responsible behavior, trust and optimism are necessary for a strong community. The perfect guidebook is God’s Holy Word, The Bible.
Be thankful for the little things. Because the little things are turning out to be pretty big, aren’t they?
Make it simple. Think before you speak and act. Listen a little longer, consider others and love a lot more.
My wish for 2021? Keep it simple.”
Brad Barr, Columbus
Communications coordinator, 4 County Electric Power Association
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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