The mere word “resolution” has become synonymous with failure. Year after year we pledge these New Year Resolutions and somewhere around mid-February (if we last that long), we set them aside and hope to do better next year.
I believe the term softened to “goals” or “plans.” As we unpacked those terms, we realized goals and plans are open-ended, and we can file them away for a more conducive time when all the stars are aligned and life is optimal for fulfilling them.
But intentions…it may just be the new way to say it which actually helps us to follow through with them.
So, I hit the streets to determine our readers’ intentions for the new year 2025 and share with you their aspirations for 2025.
Chris Wright, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A in Cornelia, wants to focus on making sure his top priorities receive his top effort.
Stephens County Superintendent, Dr. Connie Franklin said, “Personally, to grow in my relationship with God and make more time for family. Professionally, I aim to continue to Grow Greatness in Stephens County Schools by setting high expectations for students and staff and providing the support needed to achieve those expectations.”
Woods Furniture Marketing Director Marcia Hamil intends to travel with loved ones and continue to see progress in her health journey.
Todd Strickland, the owner of Your Pie on Clarkesville Square wants to be intentional about staying off his phone and lowering his screen time. “I want to be intentional about serving others,” he added. “I always strive to grow closer to God and have a peaceful existence with less stress.”
Anne Ward of Lake & Laurel on Clarkesville Square has set intentions to slow down and read the Bible to truly know God through His Word.
Pharmacist and mother of three Jennifer Jennings expressed, “Being intentional – with family, friends, coworkers, and health.”
Banks County Superintendent Ann Hopkins wants to declutter her home. “As a school superintendent, I intend to emphasize the safety and mental health of our students and staff. We want to continue to strive for academic success and celebrate our achievements.”
For Pastor Ross Wheeler of Clarkesville Methodist Church, “Probably establishing a more complete personal presence in the places God has called me to serve in His name.”
Radio personality Cole Cleiman of WCHM, 93.4FM, chooses to be more family-oriented and spend time with loved ones. “I intend on taking more time to slow down to appreciate the little things and moments in life.” He also intends to continue providing a place at WCHM to promote the greatest things and greatest people in our community and help those less fortunate.
Dean Dyer, co-owner of WRWH 93.9FM Radio and publisher of wrwh.com in Cleveland, GA, has tried for 50 years to work less and relax more. He is hoping this is the year he makes that happen.
Habersham Chamber of Commerce President, Ellie Van Doornum, wants to do some traveling. “I’ll be working on strengthening existing relationships by being more present, attentive, and persistent.”
County Commissioner and attorney Bruce Harkness talked about his intentions of service. “God has placed me in a position to be able to help others and help our community. I pray to be the hands and feet of Jesus to be able to help those in need. I want to leave my community better than before I started.”
Express Care of Habersham’s Chet Baker intends to slow down a bit and spend more time with family and reconnect with old friends.
Melissa Reeder, co-owner with husband Jay of Community Brew & Tap, Fenders, and Farmacia Trattoria, put it simply, “I want to continue in my health journey, walking regardless, eating well regardless, drinking water regardless, and first and foremost, Jesus, regardless.” She added, “Keep loving – regardless.”
Diane Brown of The Norton Agency sums it up well, “My intentions are not to dwell on poor choices/sins that my Lord Jesus Christ has forgiven. I intend to look forward, not burdened by the past. I want to glorify God with everything I think, say, and do with my life that He has blessed before the beginning of time.”
What are your intentions? We’d love to hear from you! Email me at [email protected] or place a comment on our Now Habersham Facebook page.
