Friday, December 31, 2010

Friday Hope Blogging


Given that I haven't exactly held up my end of the bargain this year, I'm touched and flattered that people still read and comment from time to time. I'd like to do more in the coming year, mainly because I miss the conversation. Perhaps in the glorious sci-fi utopia of A.D. 2011, I'll find myself in a better position to fulfill my lifelong dream of prattling interminably on the Internets.

I feel as though I should say something about the past year, but my mind is blanker than usual. For me, at least, it began with a larger leap into the unknown than most, and in retrospect I begin to see how it brought me to a point where words seemed pointless. Or mine did, anyway.

Maybe I was too hasty. Or not. Who's to say?

In any case, here are a few links for Auld Lang Syne. Because as we all know, "the easy way and the inclination is toward despair and that is the great temptation."

Freshwater wildlife thrives in cleanest rivers since Industrial Revolution.

Gingrich-buster among President Obama's recess appointments.

U.S. court rules Texas cannot delay EPA-mandated greenhouse gas rules.

Paris will test a ban of high-emissions vehicles in the city center.

Far East Dallas residents welcome all neighbors – including homeless.

Seven imperiled Brazilian bird species gain endangered status.

Grazing halted to protect steelhead trout on a quarter-million acres of Malheur National Forest.

Another setback for a West Coast coal port.

Massachusetts to get "pay as you drive" auto insurance.

New study shows death penalty in decline nationwide.

Mobile technology gives Zimbabweans a voice.

Local Community Radio Act was passed.
Feel free to add more in comments. Best wishes for the new year to all of yez. See you when I get there!

(Photo at top: Eternal Flame Waterfall.)

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

I hope that 2011 is better for you. I'll be reading whenever you post.

Cheryl Rofer said...

Happy New Year, Phila!

Ukraine sends 100 kilograms of enriched uranium to Russia for safekeeping.

I've had a few others for you, but I also had an e-mail meltdown. Send me an e-mail so I've got your address.

Phila said...

Lilian: That means a great deal to me. Thank you!

Cheryl: Thanks yet again. You've got mail, as the young people say.

chris said...

This has been running through my head lately. Helps me put things in perspective and Zeus knows I've needed that. Anyway there's enough to go 'round...
Happy New Year, Phila!

ellroon said...

Thanks, Phila for wonderful finds on your Hope blog. It makes such a wonderful change from the tedious rumpus going on in Congress.... and helps us remember what is important.

CK said...

Phila, always a happy day for me when you post. 2010 was, for me as well, a year where words often seemed useless, and mere dumb stoicism (or surrender) the only possible response. But 2011 is here, and your words still have the ability to challenge, delight and inspire hope. I cherish your blogging, and wish you the best.

roger said...

may your leap carry you somewhere nice this new year.

your posts have led me to many fascinating places. thanks.

Leslie Guinan said...

Phila, your words never seem pointless to your readers. I know there are many like me who rarely comment, but look forward to your posts. We're all wishing you a wonderful 2011.

Phila said...

Thanks for the kind words, friends. I'm honored and humbled.

noel said...

Look, your first troll of 2011! I wonder why it feels so threatened.
Love your blog. Keep up the good work.

j-bird said...

I've only lurked thus far, but I really love your Hope Blogging. It reminds me that good people can make the world better, even if only by small increments, and that makes me want to get out there and do something good. I'm trying to embark on a career in science, and my dream is to be part of the sort of thing you'd post here.

Phila said...

Look, your first troll of 2011! I wonder why it feels so threatened.

This troll is famous for posting similar comments at skeptical/atheist blogs (hence the references to Shermer, Harris, etc.), and now seems to be venturing outside that community.

It's a pretty obvious case of mental illness. And I say that to invite compassion, rather than mockery.

some guy said...

hey Phila,

happy new year. keep bringing the hope.