I'm just writing this diary because 2008 should be a hell of a year.
I like reflecting on my life and what I've observed as well and I'll do that with this diary.
Why should anyone look forward to 2008? I'll give you some reasons.
Normally, I spent yesterday at home, watching the ball drop on TV. My friends had plans but couldn't find a party to go to or anything so we ending up going our own ways. Being that the roads were horrible and it was snowing, I decided to take the logical route and go home to take it easy.
Some people think that partying over a new year is silly and a waste of time. Not me. I think that with each passing year, it gives us a chance to reflect on what we did and didn't do the previous year and hopefully keep promises to ourselves that we have broken so many times.
For example, 2004 was the worst year in my 26 years on earth. With the Red Sox world series victory and getting a new job, it gave me motivation and going into 2005, I lost over 100lbs and everything seemed to be on the up and up in my life. The only other downside to 2004 was watching Bush steal yet another election.
Then 2006 came along and all my gains of 2005 seemed to be rising even more. Then, I ran into problems at my job. Stress increased. I couldn't deal so well and because I lost weight so fast, I gained it back even faster. It was heartbreaking and 2007 continued the same downward slide.
Now with 2008 underway, I'm starting to think about what really matters to me. Getting involved more with politics has given me more meaning in my life. Donating money to John Edwards was a thrill, even if it wasn't much. I NEVER donated money to candidates before that, always believing that it was a waste of time.
I realize that 2008 is a make and break year not only for myself, but also for the Democrats and progressives in general. It is a must-win year. No matter which Democrat candidate wins the nomination, we need to support them and understand that even if they are flawed, that WE HAVE THE POWER to make them listen. Don't listen to Rupert Murdoch, Paulites, Faux News or even Richard Cohen.
We all have our preferences in regards to Democratic candidates. The crap is flying between all three candidates now. We need to step back, take a breather and try to see the big picture ahead of us.
Think about your life in general. What's important to you in 2008? For me, my brother being released from prison sometime this year keeps me going. The thought of trying to lose weight again gives me motivation. Trying to find a new job gives me motivation. Maintaining relationships and hopefully finding a girlfriend gives me motivation.
What motivates you?
2008 is shaping up to be a BIG year. Let's make it the year of the Phoenix (not related to Chinese New Year) and rise in our own personal and political lives.
American yearns for change and if we do not unite as progressives, that change will not come. Forget about 2006. This is 2008. It's time to take it all the way in 2008!