I think we can all agree that 2016 has been a rough year. Countless memes, posts and frustrated conversations seem to have the same message: 2016 sucked, and we can only go up from here.
Well, after reading Trump's plan for his first 100 days, I'm not entirely sure up is the direction we're going. From human rights to the health of our planet to the clarity of our consciences, there's a lot that can and may go very very wrong. We need to educate ourselves, recognize the issues and do something about the injustices that we see.
However, politics doesn't have to be the only thing on our mind. As we head into 2017, we should recognize some of the positive things in our future as well. Here's a list of just a few of the things that we can look forward to in 2017.
1. New movies coming out
Get ready for Beauty and the Beast (with Emma Watson!!), Toy Story 4 and a new Pirates of the Caribbean, among others. Plus, if you're a fan of superhero movies, there's a lot coming your way in 2017. (Not to mention we're now only a year and a half away from the movie release that I've been waiting for for years, The Incredibles 2.)
2. The solar eclipse
On Monday, August 21, 2016, we will be able to experience the first total solar eclipse in the United States since 1979. This is the first time in 99 years that people from coast to coast will be able to experience the totality of an eclipse. This event is sure to be spectacular. Don't miss it.
3. The Women's March on Washington
On January 21, 2017, thousands of people will march from the Lincoln Memorial to the White House for the Women's March on Washington. It's ultimate goal is to "uplift voices that have been silenced." While not all the details are released quite yet, the organization's national co-organizer express that “you’re going to want to be there — this will be going in the history books, 100 percent.”
4. Virtual reality
For anyone who has ever tried virtual reality, you know that it's pretty darn cool. It has enormous potential. In 2017, get ready to see VR become more mainstream.
If you're unhappy with how 2016 turned out, get involved. Enjoy the cool things that are coming your way and see what you can do to make 2017 a better, happier, kinder year.