New Year’s resolutions are believed to go back to ancient Rome, when Janus, the mythical Roman king, inspired many to look for forgiveness from their enemies and exchange gifts before the beginning of each year.
With each New Year comes a time for many of us to be reminded of our imperfections and shortcomings (a daily occurrence in our household), and of the opportunity to improve the quality of life, not just for ourselves but those we care about. Many, no doubt, will use the opportunity to eat a little less, exercise a bit more, or increase time spent with family and friends.
When we re-launched The Troubadour back in September, one of our goals was to cast a bright light on the extraordinary people and communities whose giving spirit helps to make our state such a wonderful place to live.
These last few months have been difficult for workers and families across New Hampshire. If the recent economic downturn and last month’s calamitous ice storm taught us something, it was just how vulnerable all of us can be. It also showed us how selfless and even heroic our neighbors can be when they see others in need.
Across the state, as hundreds of thousands went without heat or light for days on end, we heard stories of folks opening their homes to strangers, delivering warm meals, taking seniors to doctor’s appointments, looking in on neighbors to make sure they were alright, and policing neighborhoods to keep an eye out for trouble. One family reported returning home with bottled water and supplies, prepared to tough out the cold spell, only to discover that a neighbor had hooked up a small generator to keep their house warm.
If New Hampshire residents are known for their independence and self-reliance, they are equally regarded for their unwavering commitment to community. As we ring in this New Year, let all of us resolve to keep this spirit alive.
Let us resolve to keep an ever watchful and helpful eye out for our neighbors. Let us resolve to help our local merchants through tough times by giving them our business. Let us resolve to give when we can – if not of our money, then our time and passion – to those who are struggling. Let us resolve to continue giving our children an example to live by, our seniors the deference they deserve, and our communities the time and nurturing they require. Let us resolve in 2009 to keep the New Hampshire Way alive and well.
