First Posted: 1/7/2012
My New Year’s Eve reminded me 2012 will be absolutely nothing like 2002. That’s probably a good thing.My family and I spent a quiet evening at home Dec. 31. I didn’t even consume a sip of alcohol. My wife, children and I played games together on the Wii. We watched part of the big celebration in New York on TV.Somehow all three of my daughters thought watching Justin Bieber perform was the highlight of the night, not watching that giant ball drop. Everyone fell asleep by 11 p.m. except my wife and me, who lasted until about 12:15 a.m. My younger, single self loved a good New Year’s Eve party. The more people, the better. The more exotic shots and drinks, the better. It was a good time to socialize with friends and strangers alike and get a little silly for the night. The highlight was always finding someone for that kiss at midnight.I had enough money and free time to do most of what I wanted to do. I spent a lot of time with friends, enjoying their company and that of my pal, Bud (short for Budweiser). I spent an awful lot of time playing Madden football on a video game system. I had a good life, or so I thought.A lot’s changed in those 10 years. I’m sure my younger, single self would say I’ve gotten a bit lame as my hair grayed. I’d argue my vision’s just clearer now about what really matters.Once you find the love of your life and have a few kids, you don’t need New Year’s Eve parties to celebrate the possibilities of the future. You find that same optimism with every new accomplishment of your children, whether it’s a first step, a first at-bat or a first solo at church.It’s not as if your own life stops, by any means. You still develop in your own career and personal life. I still enjoy a frosty adult beverage or three now and again. I still enjoy hanging out with strangers and friends alike. I might enjoy it more now, as a busy schedule makes it a less frequent occurrence. I’ve learned there’s more to life than an after-work trip out with co-workers. I’ve found 6 a.m. is just as good of a wake-up time as a bedtime.New Year’s Eve parties always seem to be a celebration of what’s to come in the next year. That’s great if you’re dissatisfied with the previous year. You’re more willing to focus on what was good in your life if you feel like it’s good.I won’t pretend 2011 was the best year of my life. I struggled through some personal and professional strife. I don’t love how everything turned out in either regard. Still, I have faith things are better than they could be. I’ve certainly had worse years, so I’m thankful I made it through relatively unscathed, thanks mostly to the people who are along for the ride.I don’t necessarily need a big party on New Year’s Eve anymore. I already know who I’ll kiss at midnight, not just that night but every night, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. Deep down, I know the 2002 edition of me would be envious of the life I lead now.
David Trinko: Give from the heart this Christmas
