2010

Does anyone else remember those last years in the 1990's, when the whole world seemed convinced that the second 1999 ended, the Earth would rock on its axis (tipping, in the process, California into the Pacific), the planes would fall from the sky, the nuclear weapons would simultaneously activate themselves, and we would all die in a heap?

Okay, it is pretty clear in hindsight that we were all a bit naive in those fears. Even so, the sensations they evoked, the hunger to live, the building excitement which coexisted with that streak of realism (the inner voice that jeered at us every time the question, "What if...?" popped into our heads regarding that whole Careening California thing) which kept each of us fixedly pointed towards the future despite even the most dire predictions...thrived. We all wanted to LIVE, to believe in the magic of the future--eager to see what "Y2K" would yield....

This morning, I awoke to new confidence and determination. For a while now, I have battled my own doubts as a writer, as an editor, as a human being with something vital or unique to contribute to the "literary" world. Perhaps everyone who puts "pen to paper" does, regardless of commercial success (or failure). Yet today--even though the changing of years has not had much of an impact, quite frankly, on my attitudes or "psyche" in quite some time--I was honestly swept away on a tide of frenetic anticipation, unable to sit or stand, move or remain still, sleep or fully awaken in my utter conviction that something new, something startling, something significant awaited me.

Thus, here I sit, beginning yet another short story, entering yet another contest, jotting down yet another idea for another literary "piece," and it feels good!

It feels right.

Here's wishing anyone who stops by my disorganized little thought pool the best and brightest 2010. New beginnings await us all...and I would like to believe that piece, prosperity, and the fulfillment of a wealth of our desires lie just beyond that compelling new horizon.