I don't want to be the "spoilsport" of New Year and therefore first of all I want to wish everybody a great start into 2017 and a following year full of success, health and happiness! :-)
Nevertheless I cannot deny that some side effects of the New Year celebrations intensify my sometimes rather pessimistic view of humankind. Yes, I do understand very well and also appreciate that people like to have nice New Year's Eve parties including some fireworks, drinks and much fun. But again, as every year, when I left home this morning to make a little walk around the neighbourhood I saw so much rubbish and dirt on the streets and thrown into environment that my good mood past away instantly. Some examples from quite near of my own house:
Is it that difficult to have a nice party but after it leave the place in a good condition?
Many Germans are so "proud" about their "clean" country. I am German and I don't agree with this self-perception: Way too many people don't care at all about their environment - and yes, also here in "clean" Germany. Everywhere, on the streets, in the forests, even on playgrounds of little children I see so much rubbish (bottles, packages, food, plastic bags, cigarettes, excrements of dogs ...) which was thrown careless into environment.
So I really hope everybody did enjoy his New Year celebrations a lot ... but maybe the beginning of the New Year could also be a moment to think about if oneself could contribute a little bit to keep this planet and its fantastic nature as wonderful and livable as it has always been ...