Over the decades, New Year’s Eve has steadily devolved into a ceremonial ritual for the inconsiderately narcissistic. Celebrating the arrival of a new year has become nothing more than a feverishly desperate need to be seen, to be noticed and most of all, a primal urge to stave off loneliness. Getting drunk, hooking up and being seen on television and/or social media is now the new standard for ringing in New Year’s Day.

This year is certainly no exception, but the end of 2021 also comes attached with the dangerous spike of a deadly virus’ latest variation. I can’t help but wonder how many people attending tonight’s super-spreader events will begin the new year with regret and remorse.

So, for auld lang syne, Happy New Year to all and to all a good night.