I’ve been thinking about my new year’s resolution. I have to admit that this is not something I do every year but I think this is a particularly good time to make and hold on to one. And I think my new year’s resolution is to be Pollyanna with an Attitude.
Those of you who know me know that I’ve long been a proponent of Hope. I prefer to see the future of our community as a glass half full and ready to overflow. I have no doubt that I’ve been described at times as being a bit Pollyanna-ish, but I don’t really mind. Realism is important but it plays out very differently when fueled by hope instead of despair. I’ll take hope over despair any day and even in this economy, there are beacons of hope all around. Just check into the Advance Northeast Ohio website to see some of the efforts that are shaping our future.
But hope isn’t enough if there is no one to put that hope into action. That’s where the attitude comes in. Its going to take grit if our recovery to this recession is going to be more than mere survival. And I hope for something far better than survival. I’m hopeful that we can build a local economy that provides meaningful employment opportunities for our entire workforce. I’m hopeful that our educational system will entice families to move to our community. I’m hopeful that we soon celebrate “brain gain” in Lorain County. I’m hopeful that we will have adequate resources, respect and compassion to care for our friends and neighbors who do not have the opportunities or abilities to enjoy a fulfilling life.
That may be a lot to hope for, but its a whole lot easier when you have attitude.
Caring, Causes, & Connections 