So, 2001 draws to a close. And quite frankly, I'm very happy that it's over. Despite all the fun things that occurred this year and all the kindnesses bestowed on me, it's been a pretty bad year -- both for me and for the world. I can only hope that 2002 holds more promise and more reason for a positive outlook.

The thing is, New Year's Day is just some arbitrary date chosen by people thousands of years ago. It's just another day. When the sun rises tomorrow morning, it won't herald some major change or the dawning of peace or an economic recovery or whatever just because it's January 1. Tomorrow is Tuesday, no more, no less, and it only means that people will spend the next few weeks scratching out "2001" on their memos and notes and checks as they get used to writing the new year. Marist University did a study a few years ago and found that out of the 18% of Americans who actually make New Year's resolutions, 56% of them break them within two months.

I'm considering staying in tonight. Somehow, it just doesn't feel right for me to go out and celebrate the end of this year, because there wasn't much worthy of celebrating. I don't think many people will forget 2001 for a long long time, though I know I would like to.

Happy New Year. I sincerely hope that this coming year brings us all happiness, prosperity and good health. Unfortunately, all we can do is hope.