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s mayor of the City of Vicksburg, I have often been asked what motivates me into being the driven, focused individual that I am. Aside from my deep, spiritual relationship with God and knowing the plan He has for me has already been preordained, I wake up every morning with a spirit of determination, optimism and strength.

Success is the only goal I’ve ever known. “Can’t” is not a part of my vocabulary. I see challenges as opportunities. Every day is another opportunity for progress and success. However, I must take the proper steps to ensure that my mind, body and soul are prepared to embrace opportunities and overcome obstacles.

In today’s fast-paced society, it is so important to take care of our bodies, both physically and mentally.

I begin each day with thoughtful and prayerful meditation, followed by a work-out regiment at the local YMCA.  When I am physically fit, I have the ability to achieve my highest potential and live my life to its fullest extent.

Further, I know that when people are both physically and mentally fit, they are not as likely to have severe medical conditions. Mental and physical fitness go hand in hand. We must exercise on a regular basis and develop good eating habits in order to attain our best health possible.

Our mind will only function at its highest capacity when our bodies are in the proper physical condition and shape.

Regardless of age (I’m glad you asked, I’m 63), we must all do our best to stay physically active. Sometimes this is achieved through a change in lifestyle. It is always good to periodically make a self-evaluation of our life to determine if there are aspects that need to be changed or altered.

Moreover, I cannot stress enough how important it is to eat healthy.  By avoiding certain food substances, our bodies will naturally detox and become stronger.

For example, I am actually in the process of a year-long abstinence from eating meat and fish products. This practice has enabled me to become mentally stronger and more focused. Plus, I’ve been able to lose a few pounds in the process, which is always a great thing.

Living in the South, the temperatures can oftentimes become excruciating. However, we must remember that fresh air and spending time outdoors in moderation is extremely beneficial and healthy for our bodies.

By eating right, exercising, and getting the proper amount of rest and relaxation, our mental and emotional state of mind will be strengthened, and we will find the focus and stamina to accomplish all of our goals in life.

Going to the gym is also a practice that I strongly adhere to and endorse. Whether we choose a personal trainer or just work out on our own, we should all take the time to condition our bodies as we get older.

An intense, rigorous regiment may not be necessary depending on the results we want to attain, but we should develop a work-out regime that best suits our time, abilities and resources.

It is extremely important to me that the city of Vicksburg has a physically and mentally fit workforce.

I encourage all of our employees and their families to take good care of themselves. Without question, a physically and mentally fit workforce increases productivity, and thus, we are able to provide the highest quality of service to our citizens.

However, more importantly, I want to make sure our employees are monitoring their health on a regular basis. I am proud to say that the city of Vicksburg has some of the best employee benefits available, and I hope our workers are taking full advantage of them by having yearly physical examinations and adhering to a regular physical fitness routine.

I hope everyone understands the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. By taking a serious assessment of our health, we will become a more efficient and productive community. As I’ve said before, “The body achieves what the mind believes.

“I am who I am, I am what I am, and I am who I am and what I am, wherever I am.”