I suppose I write at least one such entry every year... But yeah, festivities do tend to get me rather pensive. Firstly, of course, I am not a big fan of participating in whatevers just to feel like a part of something larger than myself. That's not to say that I feel others should do the same...that's just me.
What I do tend to recall when it comes to everybody events like the countdowns is that not everyone will be counting down together. Some will be asleep as the clock rolls over. Others will be too busy with other concerns to actually notice the day ending. In fact, to think of the New Year as a new year seems awfully arbitrary. Firstly, we're going to look at at least 24 different time zones cheering at different times...all celebrating the same symbolic moment. More like a new day, if you ask me.
Secondly, it is indeed a matter of rolling over to a new day...which happens approximately every 24 hours anyway. What makes this one so special? I guess it mostly ends at the symbolism, since the new year's resolutions are rarely if ever really stuck to. It seems more like an excuse to launch burning metal into the air and get on with festivities.
I think besides getting stone drunk on the streets of the big cities, it also helps to keep in mind those who will not be able to celebrate together with everyone else. The destitute, the ill, those who are simply too bothered by life's troubles to enjoy the new year. If anything, this festive season is a great time to start pay it forward movements, and to be charitable. It may not mean much for individuals, but if everyone could get in that spirit the way they do with the festivities, I think it can still make an impact.
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