Collected words of wisdom for the new year

As we batted around ideas for this week’s editorial, we agreed that a new take on an old idea — New Year’s resolutions — was in order. Rather than offer our own suggestions, we decided to ask some of our readers and newsmakers. Our question: If you could tell our readers what you believe they should resolve to do in 2012, what would it be? Here are their answers.

“Don’t waste time reliving the past or worrying about the future. Each and every day is a gift. Live it fully, love your family and friends and give back to those around you.”
    —Ed Ambrosino, councilman, Town of Hempstead

“Life may take an unexpected turn at any moment, so always make time for family and friends, and don’t worry if the house is a mess or about other mundane tasks that await you. They’ll still be there tomorrow, but your loved ones may not.”
    —Patricia Callahan, Malverne village trustee and widow of James Callahan, county emergency management commissioner, who died in May

“People should think about those in need and remember to help their neighbors. Sometimes they mask the need.”
    —Bob Transom, president, Oceanside Community Service

“Do the best you can, and let friends and family know how much you appreciate and love them.”
    —Rosalie Norton, president, West Hempstead Community Support Association

“Assume the good intentions of people we disagree with, and listen to them with an open heart.”
    —Rabbi Andrew Warmflash, Hewlett/East Rockaway Jewish Centre

“People [should] resolve to cut meat out of their diet. It’s better for their health, for the animals and for the planet. Producing one hamburger releases as much greenhouse gas into the atmosphere as a car driven 10 miles.”
    —John Bartlett, menswear designer

“If more people strive to teach their kids through their actions that commitment, kindness and volunteerism are important, we would all leave the world and community in a better place for 2012.”
    —Lori Hunt-Lang, Malverne mother of four