The new year is often a time of reflection—looking back on the last year, and in many cases much further back—and, hopefully, also looking forward to the new year and the possibilities and opportunities that may come.
This one is especially reflective for me, as I’m working on our February edition, which will mark the completion of a full 30 years of publishing by the time you read this. Forgive me if I mention those 30 years a few times here.
When I look at my life, and specifically my adult life, I realize I’ve really done this paper as my primary job and responsibility for all of those years. I’ve had a couple of side hustles here and there, performed in bands—sometimes for money, sometimes not—in fits and spells along the way. And my publishing has also outlasted all of my serious adult relationships. I’m grateful to say that I’m currently in the longest and most supportive relationship of my life.
In these nearly 30 years, we’ve produced approximately 372 editions—12 per year, plus about a year when we published twice a month. It’s been one hell of a ride, and I’m incredibly grateful that this work has sustained me and been my livelihood all these years.
It’s also very much a time when I’m looking forward. I’m really hoping for the best year we’ve ever had, although, to be frank, the state of the current economy and the unpredictability of our current administration make that a bit more challenging than usual. Still, I remain hopeful.
I hope you all have a wonderful and expansive new year, and that you’re able to find moments of joy at every opportunity.
And as I mentioned last month, The Independent currently isn’t publishing any political or opinion content, but you are welcome to follow me and my political shenanigans on all the major social platforms under my name.
Happy reading!
