Another year has come and gone. Americans and Lawrence Countians prepare for 2009 with the hope and promise that a new year brings.

Many made resolutions to change behaviors or do things differently.

Some vow to exercise or lose weight. Others vow to give up one bad habit or another. Many choose the new year to make a commitment to doing something that is personally satisfying to them.

We challenge Lawrence Countians to take a broader approach to the New Year’s resolutions and think about commitments that can make our city, our villages and our communities better places to truly call home.

The options are limitless, with so many ways that someone can resolve to better their communities and enrich the lives of others.

A Tribune reader suggested citizens adopt a stretch of road in front of their homes and keep it litter free.

We feel this is a wonderful undertaking and a worthy resolution.

Several others jump to mind:

Commit to volunteering eight hours of your time once a month to a civic organization, church group or other community enrichment project.

Donate food, clothes or money to a local charity twice in 2009.

Attend at least one public meeting to learn about the challenges facing Lawrence County and Ironton’s governments.

Vow to spend more time with your children or loved ones, planning at least one activity per week that can help the family do something together.

Do something nice for your spouse or significant other. Cook a special meal. Help with the chores. Grant a “free day” for them to just relax. Anything that shows your appreciation.

Commit to being a better friend and take time to reach out to someone you have lost contact with.

These are only a few ideas and we are sure there are many more.

Keeping a few of these resolutions will be far more rewarding than any of the personal variety.