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By Elisabeth Altamirano-Smith | Community Columnist

January is passing by quickly. Most people traditionally have made new year resolutions to become a better version of themselves. Whether it is to lose weight, stop smoking or stop cursing, there are always endless ways for each of us to improve our lives. While it may seem that self-change is the only true thing that we have full-control over in our life, we all make an impact in the world every day. After several weeks of being in the new year, resolutions begin to fail. We begin to lose sight of our dream and may even begin to think it is unobtainable.

One of the most refreshing things about living in the Bible Belt is the constant reminder that we are living in a God-believing community. With that knowledge and support within the story of redemption, we know that with every day (and every moment) there is the opportunity for change. If one has already failed their New Year’s resolution, a new hour and opportunity presents itself.

With the opportunity to change in a God-believing community — the sky is the limit. Better education, better parenting, better roads, better entertainment, better curb appeal for your home sits at Chilton’s feet. With every dream comes the steps that are required to get there. If the resolution is not being met it is because the community’s lack of support and involvement. 

This past week was the 62nd anniversary of John F. Kennedy’s famous (1961) speech in which he said, “My fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” 

Kennedy gave inspiration for the future. Without pointing fingers at political parties, he gave us a guideline for new resolutions:

“Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths and encourage the arts and commerce.

All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days, nor in the life of this Administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin.”

Chilton County is on the forefront of a new era with new businesses and the promise of better education in coming years. What are the new year changes that we would like to see for our county that we will actively participate in? If there is a need, will we fill it? Let us exercise our Christian faith that the South is so well known for, in knowing that God will help us move mountains if we do our part.