On 2021: Let’s build truly welcoming communities

' What is your New Year's resolution? Look for the good in every situation and see the best in all people.

' How do you hope next year will be different from this one? I hope we will be able to safely return to doing the things we enjoy and more fully experience the things that make our community special.

I hope that our economy will regain its pre-COVID momentum.

I hope we will move past the divisiveness of this year, realizing that we can accomplish much more when we work together, respect and listen to each other and find common ground on which to build.

' What did we learn in 2020 that we can carry forward? Adaptability and creativity are essential for success.

The power of community is greater than any challenge facing us.

Working together, we can achieve an equitable and just society and build truly welcoming communities where all people feel valued.

Nicolas AbouAssaly is mayor of Marion.