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Communty Foundation sets New Year’s resolutions
Recently, during a typical late-night channel surfing session, I stopped on the History Channel, where I proceeded to learn the origins of our tradition of making New Year’s resolutions.
For those who prefer the “CliffNotes” version, the first documented New Year’s resolutions were made by the ancient Babylonians more than 4,000 years ago during “Akitu,” their 12-day New Year celebration.
During Akitu, the Babylonians promised their gods to pay debts on time, return borrowed items, and generally be good citizens. If these promises were kept, they believed the gods would look favorably on them.
In the event of a broken promise, well, it would have been a very challenging year in Babylon.
With apologies to any Putnam County resident who may also practice Akitu, most people’s versions of New Year’s resolutions come with significantly lower stakes than they did for the Babylonians. But while breaking our resolutions may not result in the wrath of a deity, failing a promise to yourself can result in some significant self-loathing and disappointment.
So, while I would never advocate setting the bar too low, if you are so inclined to set a resolution, make sure it is achievable and shared with a friend or a loved one who can help hold you accountable.
In the spirit of accountability, here are a few resolutions your Putnam County Community Foundation would like to share with you.
• In 2022, we resolve to surpass the amount of grants and scholarships disbursed in 2021 here in Putnam County, which will set a record for giving for the Community Foundation.
• In 2022, we resolve to do everything in our power to ensure that our donors feel appreciated and know that their generosity inspires the PCCF staff, board and committees.
• In 2022, we will continue to be great stewards to our local nonprofits and partner with our financial managers to invest our endowed funds strategically for a maximum return.
• In 2022, we will actively pursue the next significant Community Foundation led initiative, like our recent YMCA gift, that will positively impact our county for decades to come.
• And perhaps most importantly, beginning with this column, in 2022, we resolve to thank you as much as humanly possible. As we begin our 37th year of existence, we are keenly aware that the Putnam County Community Foundation is increasingly impactful because of the daily support of our Foundation Family. Whether you have given a dollar or received a dollar from the Community Foundation, you are a part of our story. Actually, you are the story.
You are the reason we are empowered to help make Putnam County the wonderful place it is currently and why we work to ensure it is even better for future generations.
Thank you, Putnam County — here’s to a great 2022.