Happy New Year
2004 draws to an end. For those seeking the pundits review of the year, or the predictions for the next year, there are many available. My willingness to toss my own into the forum is greater than my time or resources to do so, thus a reprieve is granted to those who are, for unknown reasons, compelled to read the LRB.
However, I do have a couple quick things to say.
The American people have responded with great generosity to the tragic tsunami. It strikes me that while many writers immediately called for this to be a politics free issue, it has become increasingly clear that the left is seeking to attack the President based on their view of his reaction. This is an unfortunate turn of events.
While we will each determine how to bring in the New Year tonight, it will certainly be a more sober and heavy hearted event for any compassionate being after hearing, seeing and reading of the destruction in Southeast Asia.
Lest we forget, there are also many things for which we should be thankful. I'll not list them, but will say that you are among them for me.
The new year brings, for me, a sense somewhat similar to that of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Of course, I'm not comparing it in significance, religious or otherwise, but noting that the mindset the new year brings for me is one of reflection and of aspiring to right the wrong in me. If you've been disappointed or wronged by me this year, and I'm aware of it, I assure you it'll be on my mind and heart. In that way, the new year presents me with an opportunity to aspire to a better me, and to plan for my continued growth and success in meeting and surpassing my obligations, responsibilities and understanding. No matter what the new year means to you, my hope is that you will find happiness in it, and that you will wish the same upon all others.
Well, that's it for now.... Have a Happy and blessed New Year.
