"Concise sentences, like darts... make impressions, while long discourses are tedious and not regarded" - Frances Bacon.
Looking back of the year that was 2013, one can not help but be amazed at all that has happened. From the election of a new leader in the Catholic Church, hell bent on changing the archaic ways that it had grown to accept, to the political assassination and destruction of our first female Prime Minister; while simultaneously destroying any chance the Federal Labor Party had at retaining office, by reinstating Kevin Rudd as leader for the September 7th election just to see him quit politics as well. From drug scandals threatening the existence of the AFL and NFL, to the high profile deaths of Mr. Nelson Mandela and Hazel Hawke and the 50th Anniversary of the assassination of American President JFK. Miley Cyrus became even more of a household name - for all the wrong reasons and House divisions, on votes of no confidence were turned into drinking games over Twitter..... If it wasn't for all the twerking, backflipping, core and non-core election promises, budget blackholes and attempted leadership spills, what would we have done for fun?
2013, will be remembered not so much by what it did (offed a few too many federal pollies/PM's for what is considered normal!!) but what it did not do. Marriage Equality, Carbon Pollution, Republicanism, The true and correct meaning of the word misogyny, Budget Surpluses and Gender Equality are all major issues that Australia did not resolve moving into the new year. While it seems that no one can keep a promise to save themselves, new beginning did seek to keep the year rolling along. New educational experiences, a new Government and a new appreciation for the role of the Speaker in the House of Representatives.
Three word slogans were a must for all the high profile politically ambitious, (because apparently no one cares what is said after 3 words!!) and the day was a success if you were counted in any sort of vote. Proportional Voting became a hot issue (and will be again come July) as a higher than normal amount of minor and micro parties were elected to the Federal Senate. Grassroots democracy was seen in action in the seat of Indi, with the Independent Cathy McGowan being elected on the back of a fairly unpopular sitting member and a well run campaign.
In many circumstances, it is a godsend that a new year has presented itself, a chance to redefine who you are, a chance to try and stick to your New Years resolutions- for at least a week!- and the opportunity to embark on a new journey with a clean slate. I have read up on making New Years resolutions, "keep them practical" they say, "ensure they are manageable" and "don't be unrealistic" I have been told. I am hopeful for the year ahead, I get to go and vote again YAYAYAY, wear some awesome glasses, travel the world and immerse myself in new cultures and different political systems. I look forward to watching our newest Prime Minister deliver on the promises outlined in Opposition, and watch as the ALP remake itself into a newly structured, major party, and rediscovers its changing voter base. No one said it would be easy, and no one said it would be simple, but with a kind and open mind anything is possible!
Happy 2014!
