Well kids, it’s been one monster of a year. While I consider myself a somewhat optimistic person, a lot of people have concluded that 2016 has been one for the toilet bowl. However, there’s been some sparkles of light. So as we enter into 2017, here’s 17 things from 2016 that I wouldn’t mind being a part of 2017.
- Kermit memes. Both the “But that's none of my business” Kermit drinking tea and the “hoodless versus hooded Kermit” are just hilarious. Sorry, not sorry.
- Women playing big roles in American politics. We had two women running for president in this election, which is pretty darn cool. However their success, it’s a step in the right direction.
- Listening to both Adele’s “25” on repeat and...
- ...Queen Bey’s “Lemonade”. On repeat.
- Simone Biles being her awesome self.
- The mannequin challenge. Trends come and go, but I like this one because it’s just a fun thing to do with your friends and some of the videos having people doing some pretty amazing things while staying perfectly still.
- High voter turnout. No matter what your views, it’s still great to see so many more people participating in the political process.
- Pokemon Go. While not personally a hardcore fan of the franchise, Pokemon Go has brought people together like no game ever has before. It’s reminded us we are a global community.
- The 21st Century Cures Act and it’s strong likelihood of being passed. Despite the deep division, a bipartisan bill opened up funding for mental health, as well reemphasizing science to research mental health care solutions. We continue to need more awareness of mental health conditions in order to continue to end the stigma.
- Scientists figured out how to link robotic limbs with the part of the part that deals with the intent to move so that those with prosthetic limbs won’t have to think about how to move the limb.
- Special glasses were invented for color-blind people.
- Portugal ran the entire country solely on renewable energy for four days straight. (Other countries should totally follow suit tbh.)
- The U.S. rate of death by heart disease decreased by 70%
- Leonardo DiCaprio finally won an Oscar! (I’m sorry but have you SEEN “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?” because it’s a cinematic masterpiece plain and simple.)
- Umm HELLO a NEW HARRY POTTER BOOK AND MOVIE!
- “Moana”. No explanation necessary. I cried and you know you did too.
- The tiger population has increased, as well as several other endangered species.
While we’ve still got a long road ahead to equality and peace, we have made some significant strides this year.
