A new year, a new you

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Tonight, Americans and others around the world will ring in 2017, and with it, the hope of better times to come. In addition to the fond memories and solemn remembrances of 2016, the black eyed peas and the champaign toast at midnight; many revelers will proudly boast resolutions of change.

New Year's resolutions are rooted in ancient religions. The Babylonians promised the return of borrowed items and the payment of debts owed. Medieval knights ended the Christmas season with the peacock vow, a re-affirmation of their commitment to chivalry. Some Christian denominations hold watchnight services on New Year's eve to remember the past, confess their sins, and offer prayers and resolutions for the new year.

Common resolutions include weight loss, healthier diet, quitting smoking, or perhaps to save more money or pay off debt.

In 2013, USA Today published a list of "five weird New Year's resolutions" including: subscribe to more trade journals, wave to other drivers at four-way stops, collect airsick bags from every major airline, try extreme ironing, and to knit sweaters for freezing trees.

In the spirit of the New Year, the Daily Mail asked our friends, neighbors and customers what their New Year's resolutions were.

"Do more for myself and renew my commitment to spend time with God and His word daily," Crystal Burch said.

"To slow down and meditate. Life is so busy I want to be able to take a little bit every day to unwind, enjoy everything around me, and give thanks for it," Emily Schindler said.

"To be better at helping people that have less than my family does," Dusty Stong said.

"One of my resolutions is to finish my (first) half- marathon," Nick Wright said.

"Pay off debt so I can travel more! The world is calling my name!" Sarah Basler said.

"To find a good job," said Rick Young.

We at the Daily Mail would like to wish our readers, advertisers, vendors, the people and organizations when we cover, and all of our staff and their families a happy and safe New Year!

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