“It’s only when we’ve lost everything that we’re free to do anything.”
Tyler’s words coming out of my mouth.
2007 was that kind of year for me. And while I’m skeptical of Tyler’s dogma as I’m skeptical of any oracle/preacher/profit, the philosophy of self-destruction was particularly useful for me in 2007.
I destroyed myself. Destroyed nearly everything that was true about me. Moved away from a city that I loved, got a new job, established a new circle of friends, started a new project with a new kind of design philosophy, made new promises to myself and others, and re-created who this “John Wick” person is.
Fitting I should do it in a city called “Phoenix.”
There were a few things I couldn’t leave behind. Debt, for one. Health issues for another. The first is almost completely dealt with. I planned on paying off all my debt by the end of the year, and while I was quite nearly successful, I still have a couple of things lingering. (A flat tire from last night will keep me from paying off the remaining debt on my car, but that’s only a temporary setback.) Los Angeles keeps shoving reminders at me. Another parking ticket I had forgotten. Those show up about once every three months. Santa Monica’s “parking tax.” I’m almost through with that as well.
The health issues have been handled as best they can be. Medication is expensive, but helpful. Watching Sicko a few weeks back reminded me how much the concept of universal healthcare threatens the purity of my Libertarianism.
Houses of the Blooded has proven to be a kind of Percival for me. Reminding me how much fun building something bigger than myself can be.
And my friends. Generous, kind and fun.
Well, I would like this to be longer, but it is time to go. Time to head out to Wal-Mart and get a new tire. I’ll see you before the New Year rings in, but for now, here’s the official greeting.
Happy New Year!