January 1, 2023
Like any other, this past year has had plenty of ups and downs. I published a book, fractured my ankle, debuted a new musical, lost my aunt, spent glorious weeks in Europe, got COVID – again, had lots of time with family and friends, had hernia surgery and a long bout of (what I think was) RSV. And that’s just what I can remember off the top of my head.
I wouldn’t change any of it.
In my life’s circle of people, many suffered profound losses and faced seemingly insurmountable setbacks. Some folks, however, experienced some stratospheric highs - one even won an Academy Award. I can’t imagine that the people who look back on 2022 as a good year didn’t also live through difficult stretches. Similarly, those who are more than thrilled to slam the door on the backside of this past year, I’m sure had the occasional great time, too.
Social media is where all of us curate the lives we want others to see. Nobody is as happy all the time as the version of themselves they present would lead us to think, and I hope nobody is as sad as they sometimes seem to present themselves.
In the pictures I take, I try to always find the beauty in what I see around me. I also try to be honest about what I am encountering. The truth is that there can, ironically, be something compelling and striking about hardship. Dorothea Lange, as an example, photographed people struggling through unimaginable poverty and isolation during the Great Depression and created some stunning photographs. The people in those pictures, however, were, I am sure, genuinely hurting.
Life is a combination of joy and desolation. 2022 certainly had its share of both. 2023 will likely have the same. What I wish for everyone is the possibility of seeing the beauty in both.
Happy New Year to everyone out there with an imperfect life. That means everyone, me included. May we all have the fortitude, and wherewithal to survive the challenges that come our way and the good fortune to be able to recognize and revel in the times when life is good. Both are coming our way whether we want them to or not.
So, 2023, bring it. I have no idea whether I’m ready for you or not, but since you’re coming anyway, I guess I’ll just have to figure it out.
Best wishes to all of you as we begin our next loop around the sun. Buckle up and hang on! Here we go!
Happy New Year ❣️
Wishing you and Michael a happy and healthy 2023, Richard. Keep up with the research, writing and connecting the dots. It’s all so interesting and we’ll constructed. Let the new journey of 2023 begin - ups, downs and all!
Julia xx