Now that the Christmas holiday is behind us, it’s time to look forward to the opportunities that the new year will bring.

Most people make some sort of New Year’s resolution. After all, it’s a brand new year, a fresh start. It’s time for a new look at life. Perhaps you will resolve to quit smoking, lose weight, eat healthier, save more money, maybe even start an exercise regimen or find a new job. The first day of the new year is the perfect time to stop procrastinating and get started on a fresh project.

With this in mind, I’d like to suggest a couple of things we could all resolve to start this year, and would make a difference in the lives of people all around us:

Donate to those in need. Most of us had our bellies filled constantly between Thanksgiving and Christmas, but there are so many in need of a simple hot meal or a warm place to sleep, and we tend to forget about them in the midst of all the hustle and bustle around us. Your local food pantry is a great place to start, and many churches and senior centers have programs that help those in need. A regular donation, or even volunteering to work in the local soup kitchen can go a long way towards helping the needy, as well as opening our own eyes to the plight of the less privileged.  

Remember your veterans. There are people right here in Missouri who have made the sacrifice that keeps us free as Americans. Many of these heroes are living in retirement homes, veterans’ homes or are out on their own and barely getting by. A great way to pay tribute to these deserving Americans, besides a donation, would be to simply volunteer to spend some time with them, talk to them and hear their stories. Just an hour or so spent once in a while could have a huge impact on a lonely veteran.

No matter what lies ahead for 2014, I wish all my constituents a safe and happy New Year. Please be careful on our roads while travelling, and I hope the new year brings you and your loved ones many blessings.

Always feel free to contact me throughout the year with any comments, questions, or issues by calling my office at (573) 751-5713 or by visiting my website at www.senate.mo.gov/brown.

Thank you for reading this and for your participation in state government.