I interrupt my contemplation of the future to greet the new year. With “Auld Lang Syne” echoing in the rafters, we say farewell to 2022 and welcome in 2023. January 1 was, when I was growing up, the feast of the circumcision of Jesus, one week after his birth. Now, I am told, that at least in the Catholic church, it is the day to celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.
What can we say about 2022? It was marked by the continuing coronavirus pandemic, resulting in everyone wearing masks and keeping their distance. Throughout the year, from February on, we watched in horror as Russia invaded Ukraine but was unable to conquer it. And we joined with President Biden to repair the damage done by Donald Trump.
What can we look forward to in 2023? I expect that, despite the appearance of new variants, COVID-19 will continue to recede as a threat. My guess is that Ukraine will continue to turn the tide against Russia. And there is at least the possibility that Trump will be prosecuted.
What I personally look forward to is finally being able to resume work on my two books currently in train as I recover from the death of my partner, Su. I’ll continue to put health first, stressing diet, exercise, sleep, and wholesome living.
My determination to live well past my hundredth birthday remains as strong as ever. 2023 is another year in which show that I can do it.
Tom Glenn, Writer 