It has been another turbulent year in the world around us, with wars and economic turmoil. Unfortunately, there are no clear signs that it will slow down in 2023 either. Every person has an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world through their actions. But at the same time, history is bigger than each of us – some things, like the war in Ukraine and the loss of loved ones, happen whether we like it or not.
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
J.R.R. Tolkien, Lord of the Rings
Therefore, we propose to make New Year’s Eve not only a time of celebration, but also of reflection and gratitude. Gratitude for small and big things, and for the obvious as well as the unexpected.
On the last evening of 2022, we would like to take the opportunity to thank all our readers for the past year. Thank you for being here and for being as curious as we are about fashion, beauty, history, good taste and everything else that makes life worth living. We promise to take advantage of your interest and make this site better and better every year.
We are also grateful that the world has once again shown that even when evil is strongest, the goodness of people is always greater. In unexpected places, we have found new heroes and role models. A Ukrainian comedian, a hopelessly neglected British Prime Minister and a mildly confused American President – not to mention the Ukrainian people – have all stood up for the freedom the rest of us take for granted.
Finally, thank you, friends and family, for being there and continuing to be there.
And a final little thank you to Dom Pérignon, who brought a bubbly wine from France to the star status of today’s drinks. Without you, New Year’s Eve would not have been quite the same.
Wishing you a happy new year, cheers!
