The Late Jimmy Carter and New Year Challenges
Before he would become the 39th President of the United States, a young man named Jimmy Carter from Plains was set to become the 76th Governor of the State of Georgia. I am too young to have lived through the days of the late Carter’s governorship or presidency, but I have studied his life and legacy as a history enthusiast. One of the most intriguing moments of Carter’s political life, in my opinion, was his gubernatorial inauguration on January 17, 1971.
After a hard-fought era of civil rights reform, things were looking up, but there were still many who were not letting go of the old ways of the South. For example, Governor Carter’s predecessor, Lester Maddox had been elected as Georgia’s Governor after gaining national attention for his battle to keep his Atlanta-based cafeteria segregated. Axe-handles anyone? If you know, you know. Some of you will also remember that Lester Maddox was elected Lieutenant Governor after his second consecutive term as Governor, the same year Jimmy Carter was elected Governor.
With this as the backdrop, Governor Carter firmly proclaimed these words during his inaugural address:
Based on (my) knowledge of Georgians—North and South, Rural and Urban, liberal and conservative—I say to you quite frankly that the time for racial discrimination is over. Our people have already made this major and difficult decision, but we cannot underestimate the challenge of hundreds of minor decisions yet to be made.
Jimmy Carter, Inaugural Address as Governor of Georgia, January 12, 1971.
Jimmy Carter’s words are a reminder that when we make a big decision, there are many small decisions that will determine whether or not we will be successful. At the beginning of a new year, people often attempt to make big lifestyle changes. More often than not, we revert back to our old ways or bad habits. Significant changes require diligence and consistency. The “hundreds of minor decisions” will make or break us. The question is, how will we approach the “hundreds of minor decisions” that stand between us and overcoming our challenges?
God’s Word encourages us on this new year’s journey.
Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil.
Proverbs 4:26-27 (ESV)
Those everyday decisions will determine the direction of our lives this year. When we carefully consider each step and avoid going off course, we are likely to see the changes we desire.
If you have not already done so, I want to encourage you to think about some New Year goals that will help you get closer to God. Maybe consider joining a faithful church or starting a personal Bible reading plan. These are awesome decisions for someone who is looking to grow in their faith in 2025. Whatever you decide, stick with it. If you fail to follow through in your goals one day, get back on track one step at a time. Hundreds of small decisions will determine the course of your year.
Bee-Attitude
Blessed are you who are diligent in the “hundreds of minor decisions,” for you shall see the fruition of your goals.
Author Profile
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
