Dear New Year

Dear New Year,
I wonder what you have in store for me this year. Based on the surprises you threw me last year I can honestly say I have no idea what could happen this year. Last year you gave me tremendous gifts, a tour round the country performing an exciting show, Ethiopia, several new shows to work on, several new professional relationships, my first series with the BBC, my beautiful, hilarious and wondrous girlfriend (who at this moment is sitting on the bed playing appalling guitar music to herself). You have given me a home in Anerley with my dear friends the Bin and the Bee, who at this very minute are shouting at each other in elation 'WE HAVE A WALL!!' (referring to the picture wall they have created).

You have also given me homes in Brixton, Darlington, Stockwell, Kennington, Addis Ababa, Stockton on Tees and Oxford as well as numerous other places. You have given me some very exciting new music and a new member of the Columbus Giant collective. 

Now, what lies ahead. I have thoughts about what I would like to happen, but I think perhaps I will keep these to myself as...

1. I suspect they won't happen anyway
2. I'm pretty sure what happens will be far more interesting that what I thought would happen

I guess I would mainly like to continue thinking of other people more. The most important thing I have begun to learn in the last year (in earnest) is that doing things for others makes me far happier than I have ever been. Whenever I am thinking about myself I eventually end up focussing on the negative, so I'm going to stop doing this so much and concentrate my energies on making those around me happy.

This is what I hope for 2013. That in some small way I can brighten the day of all who I encounter. Maybe not all the time, but most of the time and in a kind of quiet, gentle way, rather than an astounding over awing kind of way.

Oh, yes, I also hope for adventure. To follow the spirit of spontaneity wherever she may tread.

So good night Old Year. It's been a blast. I'll miss you but always looking ahead.

Love
Darren