“ When considering New Year ’ s resolutions , it ’ s easy to set a long list of vague ambitions ,” said Kym Parnell , the Executive Director of United Way of East Miss . “ Our goal at United Way of East Mississippi is pretty simple . We want to get information to everyone explaining what United Way is and the effect it has on each one of our partnering agencies . How critical it is for all of us to volunteer , and making sure we have an impact in all four counties we serve ( Lauderdale , Neshoba , Clarke , and Kemper ), ensuring that they too know the importance of our mission to increase education , health , and financial stability .”
“ I have a couple New Year ’ s Resolutions : To live more in the moment and to make sure I dedicate time to spend with family and friends . I also plan to learn a new word every day ,” said Jonathan Bell , a relationship banker with Citizens National Bank .
“ I love the beginning of a new year ,” said Chris Bullock of Meridian . “ To me , it means new opportunities like volunteering more in my community and growing closer to the ones I love . Taking action is very important to me and a desire for meaningful change keeps me motivated far beyond January . I absolutely love my community and finding new ways to volunteer and give back will always be a priority of mine . With a new year comes a lot of uncertainty , so I focus on what matters most like strengthening relationships with my family and friends .”
“ My New Year ’ s resolutions are to continue my weight loss journey ,” said Melissa McGlawn , a bank manager at Citizens National Bank . “ I ’ m down 40 pounds right now and I started on Aug 5 . I also want to travel to two new states that I have never been to . It doesn ’ t matter where .”
Meridian resident and avid runner Debbie May is looking forward to more running in the new year after two minor surgeries in the past year . May said her husband , Gene , took good care of her throughout recovery from the medical procedures , and they both looked forward to running more races in 2023 . “ In the new year we are going to hit the pavement , the dirt or the trail ,” May said . “ Whatever it takes .”
“ My 2022 ended great , so my resolution for 2023 will pick up where 2022 left off ,” said Lakeisha Hayes , a human resources administrative assistant for the Meridian Public School District . “ Health goals : I ’ m going to lose 25 pounds by exercising four days a week starting out , eating healthier , and cutting back on sugar ; focus more on my mental health by staying stress-free and enjoying life every moment ; Take more small trips with my family ; Alway learn / grow in Christ and love .”
10 • MERIDIAN LIFE