The year 2017 has been a rough one for many people. Whenever you think it can’t possibly get worse, that humanity can’t really be that bad, it does, and it is. From the election of the least popular president in U.S. history and the rise of neo-Nazism, to the refugee crisis and climate change, there has been a lot to be worried about (in fact, I had a hard time paring down the list of horrible things going on in the world, so that was fun). The future seems like a bleak, empty black hole whose gravitational pull is sucking us all in toward oblivion.
This morning I found myself reflecting on my own personal journey this year and how it would have been next to impossible to make without the love and support of my friends and family. I have leaned on them more than usual these past twelve months, and I am eternally grateful that they rushed in to support me with selflessness, love, and unwavering kindness. My wish for you, whatever you celebrate at this time of year, is that you’re able to find your own tribe of lovingkindness. Or, that you can be that person for someone else. We’re all going to need to hold each other up to face whatever comes.
On that note, I’ve rummaged around that garbage heap known as The Internet (damn it, I just remembered about net neutrality—f*ck) and found some things to, hopefully, lift your spirits.
This article in the New York Times, celebrating the arts in 2017.
This story about a Baltimore police detective who brought joy to a 98-year-old woman in her final days.
Two wealthy, beautiful people got engaged. (I know, I know. But they seem happy, so whatever.)
Sesame Street got a grant to bring some joy to refugee children from Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. (Actually, just tool around that website for a minute. You’ll feel better.)
This bag of dicks was finally found guilty of war crimes and sentenced to life in prison.
This questionable (but still heartwarming) excuse for getting out of jury duty.
These tech billionaires did something good with their money.
Bill Gates noted some positive news from Twitter.
Also from Bill Gates, some positive news on climate change.
I hope these stories have restored your faith in humanity a little bit. Now, go forth and be a positive force in the world.
Happy New Year!