Although more traditional new year’s resolutions were made in ample numbers, when considering resolutions for the new year, it seems many Washington Parish residents had their spiritual health in mind.

Kendall Cunningham, 21, recently moved from Raceland from Raceland to live with his aunt and uncle after he became involved with drugs. He is living with April and Adam Degraffenreid in Thomas.

“My resolution is to get closer to God because I’ve had a rough past and a battle with drugs,” Cunningham said. “My aunt and uncle got me to move up here from Raceland and go to church.”

The Degraddenreids have six children. Adam Degraffenreid’s father passed away on Dec. 21.

“I want to live closer to God so I can be a better example for my children,” April said. “The last thing I told Adam’s dad before he died was ‘Jesus loves you.’ He just smiled and then passed away. Overall, I just want to try and become a better person.”

Adam Degraffenreid said the thought of his father being saved brings a smile to his own face.

“I have a glimmer of hope he was saved when he died,” Adam Degraffenreid said. “I want to get closer to God. And I want to become a better father and husband.”

Making her daily rounds carrying the mail, U.S. Post Office carrier Genevia Warren offered similar thoughts.

“My New Year’s resolution is to study my Bible more and be more active in my church.” Warren said.

Warren said she has worked at the post office for 30 years.

At 84, Pansy B. Tyson said her resolution was out of her hands, but it can be accomplished with help from above.

“My New Year’s resolution is to live longer,” Tyson said. “I’m just glad to be here. I hope I can make it to church every Sunday at Thirkield United Methodist Church.”

Tracey and Markita Weary said both they want to improve their spiritual lives.

“Mine to start the new year is get my Christian life together,” Tracey Weary said. “I want to become a prayer warrior and just become a better person,” Markita Weary said.

Some of the more traditional resolutions were on the minds of Dustin James and Jonathn Garza.

“I want to be healthier and make a lot of money this year,” James said.

Garza’s thoughts ran along the same lines.

“I want to get healthier, stay in shape and stop smoking cigarettes,” Garza said. “I want to focus on my job and my kids.”

Former Glen’s Drive Inn and Sally’s Supermarket owner Charles Sharp’s resolution focused on health issues.

“ I’m a diabetic, so my resolution is not eat to any sweets unless they’re sugar-free,” Sharp said.

Franklinton’s Kenneth Brown asked for a spiritual awakening for his family.

“I hope for the new year is for my family to get saved and filled with the Holy Ghost,” Brown said.

Kelli Garwood was philosophical when it came to her resolution.

“My resolution for the new year is to appreciate all the obstacles and use them for an opportunity to grow,” Garwood said.